Moldovan PM, France’s Minister Delegate for European Affairs discuss new investment projects

Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu has had a meeting with France’s Minister Delegate for European Affairs Benjamin Haddad. The officials discussed the current regional situation, the goals of the bilateral agenda and opportunities to strengthen the Moldova–France dialogue.

The PM praised France’s constant support both for Moldova’s European integration process and for the implementation of projects with a direct impact on citizens. Since 2022, the total support provided by the French Development Agency (AFD) has exceeded 300 million euros.

At the same time, two agreements today were signed at the Government with the French Development Agency, through which Moldova will benefit from 60 million euros to modernize irrigation infrastructure and expand farmers’ access to water. The financial package includes a 45-million-euro loan and a 15-million-euro grant. The grant represents the first investment project under the Growth Plan for Moldova – the most extensive European economic support programme for the country.

It is estimated that, on the land served by the rehabilitated systems, agricultural output could increase by at least 50 per cent compared to the average of the last 10 years. Through these investments, farmers will have better access to water for irrigation and the agricultural sector will become more resilient to drought and to challenges related to water resources’ management.

Also today, the Declaration of Intent on the joint information and communication strategy regarding the challenges of process of Moldova’s accession to the European Union was signed. The document reconfirms the close cooperation between Chisinau and Paris in supporting the country’s European path.

Another objective mentioned by the officials concerns attracting French investments. The prime minister emphasized Moldova’s interest in boosting economic relations with France and in encouraging French businesspeople to invest in sectors with development potential, including energy, infrastructure, agriculture, industry and modern technologies.