The European Commission and the European Investment Bank (EIB) have announced a €12 million investment grant for the EIB Global project to rehabilitate and modernise two key sections of Moldova’s railway line. The upgraded infrastructure will enhance internal connectivity within the country and offer a crucial export route for Ukraine, fostering regional stability and economic resilience. The rehabilitation of Moldova’s north-south railway corridor will be central to this project, providing a critical link from western Ukraine to key Danube and Prut River ports with access to international waters. The improved existing railway connection between Moldova and Ukraine aims to boost trade and benefit both Ukrainian exports and the Moldovan economy, particularly in the context of the EU-Ukraine Solidarity Lanes initiative.
The project will be implemented by the Moldovan railway operator Calea Ferată din Moldova and covers the rehabilitation of railway infrastructure on Moldova’s Vălcineț-Ungheni-Chișinău-Căinari corridor. It is part of an overarching countrywide reform to improve the existing rail infrastructure and bring Moldova’s railway network in line with EU standards and practices in the longer term. Beyond immediate infrastructural improvements to Moldova’s key railway infrastructure, the project supports Moldova’s efforts to act in the spirit of solidarity with its neighbours and improve the crucial route of Solidarity Lanes.
EIB President Werner Hoyer said that the €12 million contribution to Moldova’s rail infrastructure, to be complemented by an EIB loan, is a sign of the partnership and shared goals between Moldova and the European Union. The project will strengthen the resilience of Moldovan railway infrastructure, improve Moldova’s connectivity with Ukraine and Europe, and benefit the Moldovan economy.