Moldova targets EU fund absorption through Romanian strategic partnerships
Moldova is looking to leverage Romanian administrative expertise to overcome chronic bottlenecks in absorbing European Union funds. Despite the availability of significant social and infrastructure financing, Chișinău continues to face challenges linked to limited technical assistance and monitoring resources.
More than 200 specialists from both nations gathered recently in Buhuși for the 16th "Boosting EU Fund Absorption" conference. The summit aimed to transfer practical knowledge from Romanian local authorities to Moldovan counterparts.
Addressing the expertise gap
The primary obstacle identified is not a lack of funding, but a shortage of administrative capacity. Iurie Calestru, President of the Institute for Development and Expertise of Projects (IDEP) Moldova, emphasized that rapid modernization depends on adopting European standards through successful project implementation.
"We need to learn from Romania’s best practices to support central authorities in the integration process," Calestru stated. He noted that institutional readiness is the fastest route to European integration.
Proven models of success
The host city, Buhuși, serves as a blueprint for small-scale urban development. Mayor Vasile Zaharia showcased local investments in healthcare, education, and infrastructure—all modernized through EU financial vehicles.
The delegation visited the "Prof. Dr. Eduard Apetrei" Hospital, a facility transformed by European grants. This model is now being studied by administrators from the Bălți Clinical Hospital and the Institute of Emergency Medicine in Chișinău to replicate similar digital and patient-flow optimizations.
Strategic twinning and future funding
The event also focused on upcoming EU allocations for research, innovation, and healthcare. MEP Maria Grapini highlighted that funds are not self-executing; they require rigorous project preparation and high-level transparency.
In response, local leaders from regions like Sculeni (Ungheni) are actively seeking strategic twinning partnerships with Romanian municipalities. These collaborations aim to move beyond symbolic gestures toward shared technical offices for grant writing and project management.
The conference, organized by IDEP Moldova in partnership with the Buhuși City Hall, underscores a shift toward pragmatic, sector-specific cooperation as Moldova advances its EU candidacy.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
