- EBRD President Odile Renaud-Basso will visit Moldova to reaffirm support for EU-linked reforms, sustainable infrastructure, energy security, and MSME development.
- The Bank has invested nearly €2.9 billion in 193 projects, including renewable energy, road and rail upgrades, and Balti’s district heating modernisation
The President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), Odile Renaud-Basso, will visit Moldova later this week to show the Bank’s support for the country’s economic reforms. Moldova has held EU candidate status since 2023. The visit comes as the country accelerates reforms tied to its EU integration goals.
During her visit on Thursday and Friday, Renaud-Basso will meet President Maia Sandu, Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu, and other senior officials. She will also hold discussions with business partners, diplomats, and civil society representatives. The meetings aim to reaffirm the EBRD’s commitment to supporting Moldova’s reforms and investment priorities.
Renaud-Basso said Moldova’s EU ambition offers a rare opportunity. She described EU accession as a key driver for economic reform, growth, and institutional strengthening. The EBRD said it will support Moldova by encouraging investment and providing targeted assistance to advance reforms.
The EBRD is the largest institutional investor in Moldova. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Bank has provided €1.7 billion to help Moldova manage economic impacts. Overall, the Bank has invested nearly €2.9 billion in 193 projects, with 40% focused on sustainable infrastructure.
The Bank has increased lending for road and rail upgrades to improve regional connectivity. By the end of this year, the EBRD expects to sign €150 million for two major road projects. This follows €150 million signed in 2024 and €40 million for an earlier road project in June.
The EBRD has also supported Moldova’s energy security. It provided a €400 million loan this year to help the country purchase gas and electricity from EU suppliers. The Bank is helping Moldova transition to a renewables-based energy system. Projects include technical support for the country’s first renewable energy auction and improvements to energy efficiency and heat supply in Chisinau and Balti.
The EBRD said these investments are essential for economic growth. The Bank also focuses on supporting local businesses, particularly in agriculture. Micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises make up 98% of Moldova’s businesses. The Bank helps them access finance through local banks to boost innovation and competitiveness.
Renaud-Basso will visit Balti to review EBRD-funded upgrades to the district heating system. The project has improved services for 70% of the city’s residents. It began in 2014 with a €10 million investment and continued in 2021 with €17 million for apartment-level billing and network upgrades. The initiative has improved energy efficiency and reduced emissions.