
Moldova and Ukraine will strengthen relations with the EU through Solidarity Lanes and their integration into the TEN-T network, modernization of transport infrastructure
The Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development said this during the 3rd International Trade Facilitation Forum “EU-Ukraine Solidarity Lanes: More than Crisis Measures”, organized by the EU Border Assistance Mission to Moldova and Ukraine (EUBAM), held in Chisinau. The topics of this year's forum focused on the support measures offered to Ukraine through the Solidarity Lanes to improve coordinated border management, as well as to help Ukraine and Moldova integrate into the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T). The panel discussion on the possibilities for Moldova and Ukraine to integrate into the TENT-T network included speakers Mircea Pascaluta, State Secretary of the Moldovan Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development, his Romanian counterpart, Ionel Scriosteanu, State Secretary of the Romanian Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, and Andriy Donchenko, Head of the Service for Restoration and Infrastructure Development in the Odessa Region of Ukraine. “Our country has taken important steps to integrate into the TEN-T network by focusing on the modernization of transport infrastructure. Moldova and Ukraine now have a unique opportunity to strengthen their relations with the EU through Solidarity Lanes and integration into the TEN-T network. Our joint efforts will ensure sustainable economic development and contribute to the stability of the region,” Mircea Pascaluta said. In this context, he reviewed a series of actions undertaken by the Moldovan government to develop an efficient, safe and sustainable transport system. Among them was mentioned the Mobility Strategy until 2030, which emphasizes the importance of restoring the national railway network and adjusting it to the European standards, in order to increase the freight traffic capacity and diversify the routes. Cooperation with Romania, Ukraine and the EU through the CEF (Connecting Europe Facility) program for the implementation of infrastructure projects was also emphasized. Another priority is related to the digitalization of transport processes, which will ensure smooth cross-border transit. In order to optimize trade flows in the region, Moldova proposes to develop multimodal logistics hubs in Giurgiulesti and Balti. “We are confident that through close cooperation with European partners and the implementation of strategic projects, these Solidarity Lanes will become a pillar of the entire region's development,” Mircea Pascaluta emphasized. // 11.10.2024 - InfoMarket.