Prime Minster Maia Sandu and Commissioner for European Neighborhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations Johannes Hahn signed in Brussels three financing agreements between Moldova and the European Union. The EU will provide financing totaling over €40m for strengthening the rule of law, fighting corruption and offering economic support to particular regions of Moldova, IPN reports.
In a news conference in Brussels, Commissioner Hahn said that after the European Council made public its conclusions on June 20, the EU took concrete measures to support the implementation by Moldova of the Association Agreement. By this three financing agreements, the EU aims to support the socioeconomic mobilization of Ungheni and Cahul regions. The support envisions work with the local partners for creating jobs and supporting SMEs and civil society.
Johannes Hahn noted the financing programs are designed to support the strengthening of local governance, ensuring the mobilization of civil society and the private sector so that these become more actively involved in the decision-making process. Strengthening of the rule of law, corruption fighting, promotion of gender equity and local public policies aimed at combing domestic violence will also be supported.
“I want to note that yesterday the Commission resumed the budget support payments and disbursed €284 million lei following the progress made by the Government of Moldova as regards the ensuring of the rule of law and the anticorruption efforts. It is a clear signal of appreciation of the taken steps and as clear encouragement of the authorities to continue with the fulfillment of the conditions needed for the EU to provide support,” stated the Commissioner.
For her part, Maia Sandu said that the EU is a close partner in the most difficult moments as well and this is very important for the Republic of Moldova. The three agreements will help build institutions that will fight and prevent corruption. Support is also provided for building powerful communities that will offer benefits to citizens in all the localities.
“We understand that now we should also prove that we speak seriously about the implementation of the commitments defined in the Association Agreement. I hope I will soon come back here to present results so that we see these common accomplishments,” stated the Premier.
