Romania, Moldova, Ukraine, and Bulgaria to form EAST GATE cooperation grouping

Approximately 300 local public administration authorities from Romania, Moldova, Ukraine, and Bulgaria are expected to gather in Eforie Nord on September 11, 2026, to sign the founding documents of the “EAST GATE” European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation (EGTC).

As one of the largest groupings of its kind in Europe, EAST GATE aims to establish an institutional mechanism for cooperation between local communities. The initiative spans two EU member states, Romania and Bulgaria, and two EU candidate states, Moldova and Ukraine. Proponents suggest the grouping will serve as an instrument for European integration by preparing it directly at the community level.

The grouping intends to create a unified voice in relations with European institutions and facilitate the development of cross-border projects, stretching from the Carpathians to the Danube and the Black Sea. The signing ceremony is expected to include representatives from the European Committee of the Regions and regional development ministers from the four participating nations.