EU Approves Historic €1.9 Billion Support Package for Moldova

European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos has praised Moldova's progress toward European integration, highlighting the European Parliament's approval of a €1.9 billion financial support package as a strong vote of confidence in the country's European future, CE Report quotes MOLDPRES

Kos acknowledged the challenges Moldova has faced, including hybrid threats from Russia, such as vote-buying, disinformation campaigns, and cyberattacks. She emphasized the EU's continued commitment to Moldova, especially in light of last year's energy blackmail by Russia, which aimed to destabilize the government and discredit the country's pro-European path.

Discussions on Moldova's reform agenda are advancing, and pre-financing is expected by late April or May, with the first payment under the Growth Plan scheduled for July. Kos stressed the importance of Moldova meeting its reform commitments to access these funds.

The European Parliament approved the aid package with 499 votes in favor, marking the largest financial assistance the EU has ever granted to Moldova. The support includes €520 million in grants and €1.5 billion in low-interest loans. Additionally, pre-financing has been increased to 18% of the total package, enabling Moldova to swiftly allocate resources for energy security, anti-corruption measures, and modernization of public services.

This assistance aims to bolster Moldova’s resilience against hybrid threats and Russian interference, reinforcing its democratic institutions and commitment to European integration.