EU-backed water and climate projects launch in Moldova and Romania

The United Nations Development Programme in Moldova announced a call to select 40 women farmers for climate‑resilient agricultural businesses, each eligible for up to US$20,000 of equipment, services and investments funded by Sweden and Norway. In the southern Moldovan district of Cahul, a new irrigation system financed by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) was inaugurated in the village of Pelinei. The 10‑million‑lei project irrigates 60 hectares, with farmers expecting a four‑fold rise in production.

In Romania, multiple water‑infrastructure projects are being rolled out under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR). The commune of Brebeni (Olt County) will extend its sewer network with a €16.5‑million grant. The Brașov Zoo is drilling a 300‑metre well costing about 500 000 lei to secure its water supply. Aquatim will carry out pipe‑replacement and network‑cleaning works in Timisoara and Lugoj, causing temporary water interruptions. The Salaj County Council is refinancing existing loans to free up financing for ongoing sanitary and road projects. A contract has also been signed to build a new sewer and water‑supply network in Bucovăț. All initiatives aim to improve water management, public health and economic development while aligning with EU environmental standards.