The European Parliament has officially approved a substantial economic aid package of 1.9 billion euros for the Republic of Moldova. The historic vote, which took place on March 11, 2025, saw overwhelming support, with 499 votes in favor, 117 against, and 44 abstentions, reflecting strong unity among European lawmakers on the issue.
Siegfried Mureșan, who serves as the chief negotiator for the European Parliament on this matter, took to social media to express his satisfaction with the outcome. "I am very pleased to have obtained the final vote on this instrument, and the money will reach Moldova soon," Mureșan stated. The funds are expected to start flowing to Moldova as early as April 2025.
This groundbreaking aid package, the largest of its kind for Moldova, is structured under the Reform and Growth Mechanism, recently negotiated between European Parliament and Council representatives. This mechanism is particularly aimed at assisting Moldova as it grapples with significant challenges, particularly those stemming from the repercussions of Russia's military actions against Ukraine.
Providing financial support for Moldova's resilience, the mechanism includes 520 million euros allocated as grants and another 1.5 billion euros provided through low-interest loans. Notably, according to Mureșan, the pre-financing aspect of this aid has been increased from 7% to 18%. This adjustment signifies more than 300 million euros will be made available to the country immediately following the implementation of the facility, aimed at enhancing Moldova's energy security and supporting its public services.
"The vote today clearly shows we are united at the European Parliament to support Moldova," Mureșan reiterated, emphasizing the geopolitical importance of this support. The agreement, which had been established on February 19, 2025, includes measures to strengthen state institutions, digital governance, public servant training, and judicial reforms, all of which are imperative for effective management of European Union funds.
A significant allocation of 20% of the non-refundable funds is designated for solidifying Moldova's institutions. This move aims to fortify governance structures against hybrid threats and potential foreign interference, particularly from Russia, which Mureșan highlighted as necessary for ensuring Moldova's stability and continued European integration.
The mechanism prohibits any funding from being used to undermine Moldova's sovereignty or territorial integrity, ensuring all aid aligns with the nation's democratic values. Mureșan and other European lawmakers underscored the importance of backing Moldova amid current geopolitical tensions, stating, "European security is linked to Moldovan security."
This landmark vote marks not only substantial financial assistance for Moldova but also reinforces the European Union's commitment to support countries affected by external aggression and instability. This comprehensive economic strategy is part of broader efforts to integrate Moldova more closely within the European framework, fostering sustainable growth and resilience.
Looking forward, following the approval from the European Parliament, the provisional agreements will now require ratification by the Council before they can come to fruition, with the funds anticipated to bolster Moldova at this challenging juncture.
The development has drawn attention not only for its significant scale but also for its timing, as Moldova navigates through challenging waters amid the broader regional impacts of conflict and security concerns. The European Parliament's support, alongside the mechanisms put in place within the agreement, aims to uplift Moldova and guide it on its path toward greater stability and integration within the European community.