Since 1992, the United States has provided nearly $1.2 billion in assistance to Moldova, including over $22 million in FY 2013 and a five-year, $262 million Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact launched in 2010. This assistance has supported an array of democratic, economic, justice-sector, and other reforms that advance Moldova’s European integration and illustrate the strength of the U.S.-Moldova bilateral relationship. As part of Prime Minister Leanca’s visit to Washington today, the United States announces a 60 percent increase of U.S. assistance targeted to boost the productivity and competitiveness of Moldovan businesses and to facilitate access of Moldovan wine to European Union (EU) markets. Ongoing U.S. programs in Moldova support the following objectives:

Supporting Sustainable Economic Growth

The programs announced today will help Moldovan businesses benefit from the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement under the Association Agreement that Moldova expects to sign with the EU later this year, leading to increased investment and job creation. Additionally, U.S. academic and professional exchanges will enhance Moldovans’ business skills and agricultural productivity. The United States also encourages foreign investment in Moldova by helping to reduce barriers to trade and improve the ease of doing business. These programs complement the MCC Compact, which supports a transition to high-value agriculture through the rehabilitation of roads and irrigation systems.

Strengthening Democracy and the Rule of Law

Programs strengthen Moldova’s democratic institutions and processes, including by promoting a vibrant civil society, improving local governance, and supporting more active participation by Moldovans in civic life. U.S. assistance also strengthens the rule of law in Moldova by improving judicial administration, training judges and prosecutors, and promoting public awareness of justice-sector reforms and legislation. Collectively, these programs reduce corruption while increasing government transparency and accountability, which will be crucial to fulfilling Moldova’s European aspirations.

Enhancing Security and Law Enforcement

The United States also provides assistance to help Moldova prevent and combat transnational crimes, particularly trafficking in persons, cybercrime, and the illicit trafficking of nuclear materials. These programs help to ensure the integrity of Moldova’s borders and assist Moldova in meeting EU visa liberalization and border security requirements. The United States also supports the professionalization of Moldova’s military. U.S. assistance enhances Moldova’s capabilities to become a force provider for peacekeeping and stability operations and to promote regional security.