At the first EU-Moldova Summit held in Chișinău, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President António Costa, and Moldovan President Maia Sandu reached an agreement to enhance cooperation for the benefit of both EU and Moldovan citizens. The discussions focused on EU accession, economic growth, security, and defense cooperation.
President von der Leyen announced a €270 million pre-financing from the €1.9 billion EU Growth Plan for Moldova. This funding will support reforms in Moldova and align its economy with the EU Single Market. Projects funded include a new Bălți Regional Hospital, restored district heating in Chișinău, and reduced electricity and gas bills for Moldovans. The Growth Plan aims to improve infrastructure, education, healthcare, small businesses, and cultural heritage protection.
Additionally, von der Leyen revealed that cheaper euro bank transfers would be available starting October 5, 2025, as Moldova joins the Single European Payment Area (SEPA). A proposal was also made to integrate Moldova into the EU Roaming area by January 1, 2026. This would allow Moldovan citizens to use mobile services without roaming fees while traveling within the EU.
The leaders committed to countering hybrid and cyber-attacks by Russia aimed at destabilizing Moldova ahead of parliamentary elections in September. The EU reaffirmed its support for Moldova’s resilience through initiatives like the EU Partnership Mission in Moldova and backing Moldova’s Centre of Strategic Communications against Russian disinformation. They emphasized clear communication on EU integration benefits and stressed anti-corruption efforts.
A Joint Declaration outlining deliverables from the summit is available online alongside President von der Leyen’s speech and additional details.
EU-Moldova relations have strengthened as Moldova progresses toward EU membership. In June 2022, candidate status was granted to Moldova with accession negotiations opening in December 2023. The first Intergovernmental Conference took place in June 2024.
In October 2024, Moldovans voted to embed their European future into their Constitution. On June 4, 2025, the EU-Moldova Association Council underscored efforts to accelerate integration across policy fields.
The €1.9 billion Growth Plan is part of broader political, financial, and technical assistance provided by the EU since March 2025. Earlier this year, a two-year Comprehensive Strategy for Energy Independence was agreed upon between the Commission and Moldova to reduce reliance on Russian energy supplies.
For further information:
Arianna Podesta
Deputy Chief Spokesperson
Phone: +32 2 298 70 24
Email: [email protected]
Anitta Hipper
Spokesperson
Phone: +32 2 29 85691
Email: [email protected]
