Connecting Moldova to European infrastructure. How the European Union and the European Investment Bank support the country’s modernisation
The Republic of Moldova is modernising its transport infrastructure and strengthening its links with the European Union. With support from the EU and the European Investment Bank (EIB), major projects are being prepared that will reshape how people travel, how goods move, and how trade functions — both with the EU and across the region.
Better roads, upgraded railways and more efficient logistics hubs are now clear priorities. These efforts are supported through the Facility for Eastern Partnership Investment in Connectivity (EPIC). Funded by the EU and the EIB, EPIC provides the expertise needed to ensure that projects are properly planned, aligned with European standards and ready for investment. Ultimately, infrastructure modernisation is about improving connections between people, goods and opportunities.
Moldova Growth Plan and infrastructure investments
As Moldova moves closer to the European Union and progresses towards connecting to the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T), the benefits are becoming clearer. Travel can become faster and safer, freight transport more efficient, and businesses can gain easier access to European markets. At the same time, these investments can support more sustainable solutions with a lower environmental impact.
These efforts are backed by the Moldova Growth Plan, a €1.9 billion financial package provided by the European Union until 2027. More than €500 million has already been disbursed, and funding continues to support reforms and investments in key sectors, including transport.
“The Growth Plan for the Republic of Moldova reflects the European Union’s commitment to supporting the reforms and investments needed for the country’s development. Modern infrastructure is a key part of this effort, as it helps connect Moldova to European networks and strengthens its economy,” said the Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova, Iwona Piórko”.
The plan also includes the modernisation of over 200 kilometres of roads, the development of the Iași–Chișinău–Odesa corridor, the integration of railways into the EU network, and the rollout of modern solutions such as intelligent transport systems and road safety programmes. Around €7.7 million is allocated to transport sector reforms and strengthening economic resilience.
Moldova on the European transport map
A key objective is to connect the Republic of Moldova to the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T), which links cities, ports and economic centres across Europe through roads, railways, maritime routes and logistics hubs. Integration into this network opens access to major European corridors and new funding opportunities. It also helps boost trade, attract investment and support economic growth.
“Infrastructure investment is essential for building a more competitive economy and strengthening links with European markets. Through the projects we support, Moldova is moving closer to integration into European networks and creating new opportunities for development,” said Alberto Carlei, Head of the European Investment Bank Representation in the Republic of Moldova.
Key projects supported through EPIC include the modernisation of the Chișinău ring road (sections 4–6), the M3 corridor linking the capital to the Danube port, and the R7 corridor connecting Moldova with Ukraine and Romania. These are complemented by strategic projects such as the Chișinău–Ungheni railway line, which will become Moldova’s first electrified railway built to European standards, as well as the construction of a multimodal freight terminal in Chișinău.
Moldova, the leading EPIC beneficiary in the region
Preparing infrastructure projects is a key step in turning plans into real investments. This is where EPIC comes in, providing Moldovan authorities with the expertise needed to develop solid, well-structured projects.
“For us, it is essential to prepare projects that respond to the real needs of people and the economy. The support provided through EPIC helps us set clear priorities and develop projects that can be implemented and financed,” said Vladimir Bolea, Minister of Infrastructure and Regional Development.
Launched in 2022 by the European Commission, the European Investment Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the World Bank, EPIC Facility aims to strengthen connectivity within the Eastern Partnership region and between the region and the European Union. Moldova is now the leading beneficiary of EPIC in the region, with 10 projects to date, including two completed and eight ongoing. These projects are laying the groundwork for future investments and strengthening the country’s links with European transport networks.
With the support of the European Union and the European Investment Bank, Moldova is advancing towards modern infrastructure, a more competitive economy, and closer integration with the European Union.
