Moldova strengthens regional development ties with Romania

The Northern Regional Development Agency (ADR Nord) of the Republic of Moldova has launched a strategic partnership with the West and North-East Regional Development Agencies (ADR Vest and ADR Nord-Est) from Romania.

This initiative, titled “Support of the Central European Initiative for regional development policy in the context of Moldova’s EU integration through know-how exchange with the North-East and West Regional Development Agencies,” aims to strengthen the institutional capacity of ADR Nord and prepare the Northern Development Region of Moldova for effective access to and management of European Union funds, CE Report quotes MOLDPRES.

The launch of this project comes at an important moment for Moldova, given the progress made in its European integration process. The main objective is to enhance the readiness of ADR Nord specialists in managing EU financial instruments by studying the best practices developed by Romanian regional development agencies in aligning regional development mechanisms with European standards.

“Project implementation is expected to bring significant benefits to Moldova’s Northern Development Region, including strengthening institutional competencies and those of relevant regional actors through specialized training programs; improving the capacity to design and implement projects funded by EU resources; creating a sustainable framework for cooperation with Romanian regional development agencies; and facilitating continuous exchange of expertise. The transfer of know-how in key areas of regional development is essential for modernizing the region. These results will contribute to impactful projects aimed at modernizing infrastructure, increasing economic competitiveness, and improving the quality of life for citizens in the region,” ADR Nord explained.

The project aims to achieve three specific objectives by December 2026: strengthening ADR Nord’s institutional capacity in regional development; facilitating the exchange of experience and best practices with Romanian agencies; and increasing preparedness for the absorption of future EU funds in Moldova.

To achieve these goals, several practical activities will be implemented, including certified training programs in regional development, a study visit to ADR Vest in Romania, technical assistance in project development, and a closing event during the Northern Development Region Days.

The project leverages the experience of Romanian regional development agencies in managing EU funds and represents an important step in preparing Moldova’s institutions for European Union integration. The Central European Initiative provides the framework for implementing this project. Moldova joined the initiative in 1996. The project is co-financed by the CEI Fund at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, with support from Italy through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.