H.E. Cristian-Leon Țurcanu, Romanian Ambassador to Moldova: “European and Romanian funding supports regional and central development in Moldova”

On the occasion of the launch of the project “Good Practices and Knowledge Transfer for Strengthening Administrative Capacity in Regional Development Policy between Romania and the Republic of Moldova” (code ROMD00709), H.E. Cristian-Leon Țurcanu, Romanian Ambassador to Moldova, highlighted the strategic importance of European and Romanian support for the socio-economic development of the Republic of Moldova.

Funding and Expertise for Regional Development

Ambassador Cristian-Leon Țurcanu emphasized that support from Romania and the European Union covers all levels of administration in Moldova, from local communities to the central government, facilitating projects aimed at increasing tourist attractiveness, improving living standards, and facilitating access to European funds.

In his statement, Ambassador Cristian-Leon Țurcanu said:

“Funding from Europe and Romania continues to develop the Republic of Moldova from the regional level up to the central level.
Through the Interregional NEXT project, running until 31 July 2026, CAPDR together with ADR Chișinău aim to strengthen the capacity of communities between the Prut and Dniester rivers to attract more tourists, identify solutions to improve living standards, and access European funds, as long as the Republic of Moldova maintains its European direction.

Romanians and Romania support the citizens on this side of the Prut with expertise and financing, and respect and encourage the European path towards a better and safer life.”

Impact of the Interreg NEXT Project

Implemented by CAPDR Iași in partnership with ADR Chișinău, the Interreg NEXT project runs until 31 July 2026 and focuses on developing administrative and community capacity for efficient management of European funds and local resources.

Key contributions of the project include:

• Enhancing tourist attractiveness in cross-border regions;

• Improving regional infrastructure and public services;

• Boosting local economic development through innovative solutions to increase living standards;

• Optimizing access to and management of European funds.

Expertise and Strategic Partnerships

Support from Romania includes not only financial resources but also transfer of know-how and administrative best practices, strengthening the capacity of Moldovan institutions to manage complex European projects. Interreg NEXT serves as a model of effective cross-border cooperation, reinforcing bilateral relations and preparing Moldova for European integration.

Economic and Social Perspectives

From an economic and strategic perspective, Romania’s and the EU’s involvement in Moldova’s regional development generates:

• Business and investment opportunities for local communities;

• Development of human and professional capital through training and experience exchanges;

• Reduction of regional disparities and increased social cohesion;

• Improved infrastructure for tourism, culture, and public services.

Through these mechanisms, the Republic of Moldova is better prepared to pursue EU accession and ensure sustainable development for its citizens.