The EU tightens control over €1.9 billion in aid to Moldova

The EU will strictly monitor Moldova's use of €1.9 billion in aid under the Growth Plan. Officials who have committed abuses may face criminal liability, said the head of the EU mission in Moldova, Janis Majakes. 

The plan, approved by the European Parliament, includes 400 million euros in grants and 1.5 billion euros in concessional loans, which will be allocated in 2025-2027. The conditions for financing are compliance with democratic standards, including free elections and media independence.

Majakes stressed that the Moldovan authorities are obliged to ensure the transparent use of funds, and the country's legislation already provides for punishment for their misuse. The EU demanded to publish data on recipients of amounts over 50 thousand euros and to strengthen the audit. The first tranche is expected in July 2025, and further payments depend on the progress of reforms.

Prime Minister Dorin Rechan announced the allocation of a record 3.2 billion lei ($175 million) for the repair of more than 600 km of roads. The funds will also be used for the Chisinau–Ungheni highway, the modernization of railways and the construction of hospitals. Opposition leader Ilan Shor called it an attempt to buy votes with European grants.