AGP Executive Report

Tourism & Culture Policy: Moldova’s government approved “Tourism 2029,” a 2026–2029 plan with a 618.2 million lei budget, aiming to modernize tourism infrastructure, train specialists, push digital promotion, and boost rural tourism—targeting 5,000 new jobs and building on 2025’s 600,000+ visitors and 5 billion lei in revenue. Agri-Food Investment: “Livada Moldovei II” is moving forward: Moldova approved talks and an EIB financing contract for a €150 million preferential loan to modernize horticulture, viticulture, processing, post-harvest infrastructure, irrigation, and digitalization, with about 90% for micro, small and medium farms and firms. EU Integration in Daily Life: A new explainer frames what EU accession could mean for Moldovans “from children to pensioners,” tying reforms to real services and opportunities. Identity & Tradition: President Maia Sandu marked the Universal Day of the Romanian Blouse, calling it a living symbol of authentic traditions and the work of artisans. Chisinau Heritage: Free guided tours will spotlight former mayor Carol Schmidt ahead of the 180th anniversary of his birth, with routes in Romanian and Russian. Transnistria Rights Alarm: Reports describe a propaganda summer work program for 14–16-year-olds in the so-called Transnistria, raising concerns about children’s rights and exploitation. EU Security & Media: The European Commission proposed stronger EU-wide mandates for Europol and Eurojust and updates to investigation and data rules to tackle cross-border digital crime and terrorism.

EU–Moldova Accession Push: At a second summit in Brussels, President Maia Sandu and EU leaders reaffirmed that Moldova’s future is in the EU, with negotiations accelerating after the first “Fundamental Values” cluster opened in Luxembourg and more funds pledged under the 1.9bn-euro aid framework. Security & Resilience Funding: The EU also highlighted support for hybrid-threat resilience (including €11m for countering interference) plus €17m for border infrastructure, alongside continued backing via the European Peace Fund. Local Autonomy Under Strain: In Chisinau, officials warned that the capital’s own revenues cover only about 11–12% of its budget, leaving local services squeezed as state transfers shrink. Education for Roma Students: Moldova’s education measures for 2026–27 reserve 10% of spots and scholarships for Roma learners, aiming to remove barriers to schooling. Transnistria Infrastructure Worries: Talks under OSCE involvement again focused on “barrier-free” cooperation and urgent repair needs as investment in the separatist region is reportedly being cut. Culture & Community: Moldova’s support appears in international cultural programming, including Moldova-backed participation in Norway’s Earth & East Festival.

EU–Moldova Summit: In Brussels, President Maia Sandu and EU leaders António Costa and Ursula von der Leyen reaffirmed that Moldova’s future is in the EU, with accession talks accelerating after the “Fundamental Values” cluster opened last week. Security & resilience funding: The EU pledged a new €232.7m Growth Plan push for the Porumbei–Comrat highway, plus €120m for Moldova security, €11m for hybrid-attack resilience, and €17m to modernize border infrastructure. Reforms on track: Leaders highlighted Moldova’s progress on judicial reform and anti-corruption, including judge/prosecutor evaluations, and said further funds could be released if reform targets are met by end-2026. Local governance debate: Chisinau Mayor Ion Ceban met Anne Hidalgo in London, criticizing proposed local administration reform and arguing major changes should be decided by referendum. Education inclusion: The Ministry of Education introduced special conditions for Roma students, including increased scholarships and reserved places. Culture abroad: Moldova’s presence was noted at Norway’s Earth & East Festival, with Romanian and Moldovan cultural elements featured.

EU–Moldova Accession Push: At a Brussels summit, EU leaders and President Maia Sandu reaffirmed that Moldova’s future is in the EU, with negotiations accelerating after the “Fundamental Values” cluster opened last week; reforms, judicial integrity vetting, and anti-corruption stay front and center, alongside new funding and security cooperation. New EU Money for Roads & Security: Brussels pledged fresh support tied to the €1.9bn Growth Plan, including €232.7m for the Porumbei–Comrat highway, plus €120m for security and €11m for resilience against hybrid attacks, with border infrastructure also set to get €17m. Gradual Integration During Talks: The summit also backed deeper, step-by-step access to the EU single market and participation in EU policies and programs, including SEPA and “Roam Like at Home.” Roma Education Boost: Moldova’s education ministry plans special admissions for Roma students, reserving 10% of places and adding monthly scholarships starting 2026–2027. Culture & Heritage: Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu attended the 10th DescOpera classical festival at Orheiul Vechi, highlighting the push to rebuild the National Philharmonic after a fire. Academic Reunification Debate: Romanian and Moldovan academics urged Bucharest and Chisinau to formally reflect on reunification as a legitimate democratic option, while reiterating support for Moldova’s European path. Parliament & Rights: Moldova’s MPs joined PACE in Strasbourg, with an urgent debate requested on monitoring the Chisinau Declaration on migration.

EU–Moldova Summit: Brussels pledged a new €232.7m Growth Plan boost for the Porumbei–Comrat highway, plus €120m for Moldova’s security, €11m for resilience against hybrid attacks, and €17m to modernize border infrastructure—while leaders stressed Moldova’s reform progress and deeper pre-membership integration. Parliament & Council of Europe: A Moldovan delegation joined the PACE summer session in Strasbourg, with debates ranging from AI threats to democracy and migration monitoring. Roma education push: The Education Ministry will reserve 10% of places for Roma students in general schools (grades 1–10) and expand scholarships and support, aiming to remove barriers to schooling. Culture in focus: Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu marked the 10th DescOpera classical festival at Orheiul Vechi and backed plans to rebuild the National Philharmonic. Film & books: KVIFF Industry Days announced 11 projects for Central Stage and launched Book-to-Screen, expanding regional co-productions. Gender-based violence know-how: OSCE brought Turkmen civil society groups to Chisinau to learn Moldova’s approaches to preventing and responding to gender-based violence. Jobs update: ANOFM support helped over 11,000 people find work since the start of the year.

Transilvania IFF Buzz: The TIFF.25 Trophy went to Romanian director Corneliu Porumboiu, while Lionel won the Transilvania Trophy and Ornella Mutti received the Lifetime Achievement Award—another strong week for regional cinema. KVIFF Industry Days & Film Slate: KVIFF Industry Days announced 11 films for KVIFF Central Stage and launched Book-to-Screen at the KVIFF IP Showcase, keeping Moldova’s film crowd plugged into the wider scene. DescOpera Milestone: Moldova’s PM Alexandru Munteanu joined the 10th anniversary DescOpera open-air classical festival in Old Orhei, calling for the Philharmonic’s rebuild after the fire and stressing culture’s role in national identity. Church Leadership Update: The Metropolis of Bessarabia nominated two candidates—Bishop Antonie of Bălți and Bishop Veniamin of Southern Bessarabia—for the metropolitan role. EU Path, Culture & Education: Moldova opened the first EU accession cluster (“Fundamentals”) and the EU-Moldova Summit is set to review progress, while DRRM plans awards for top students in Romanian language and history. Tourism Grants: NGOs and local groups can apply for tourism development grants up to 750,000 lei, including rural, wine, cultural and digitized services. Public Service Clarity: Labour minister Natalia Plugaru reassured workers and teachers that annual leave isn’t being reduced—only the calculation method changes.

EU-Moldova Accession: Moldova and Ukraine opened the first “Fundamentals” negotiation cluster, with Chisinau stressing justice, anti-corruption, rights, and institutions as the core of the talks. EU Summit in Brussels: The second EU–Moldova Summit will review progress under the Growth Plan, including €504 million already unlocked, and discuss connectivity, energy, education, people-to-people ties, and hybrid-threat defense. Culture & Heritage: Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu joined the 10th DescOpera classical music festival at Orheiul Vechi, calling culture essential to national identity and pledging the Philharmonic will be rebuilt after the fire. Education & Youth: Moldova’s DRRM will reward over 80 top students in Romanian language and Romanian history with diplomas and prizes in Chisinau on June 23. Public Life: The National Social Insurance House urges citizens to check their personal social insurance accounts to verify employers’ contributions and protect future pension and family benefits. Work & Teachers: Labour Minister Natalia Plugaru clarified new annual-leave calculations, saying teachers and employees won’t lose leave days or leave pay—only the way leave is counted. Church Leadership: The Metropolis of Bessarabia nominated two candidates—Bishop Antonie of Bălți and Bishop Veniamin of Southern Bessarabia—for the next metropolitan role.

Transilvania Film Festival Buzz: Romanian projects “The Fear’s Artist” by Cristi Iftime and “We Won’t Get Old Together” by Marius Olteanu scored major wins at the Transilvania Industry Awards, each taking the inaugural Transilvania HBO Award (€30,000 total). Gender-Based Violence Response: An OSCE study visit in Chișinău brought Turkmen civil society reps to learn Moldova’s practical approaches to preventing and responding to gender-based violence, including shelter and perpetrator programs. Classical Music & Heritage: Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu attended the 10th DescOpera festival at Orheiul Vechi, praising culture’s role in national identity and pledging the Philharmonic will be rebuilt after the fire. Digital Safety & Culture: Activists warned about deepfake videos, raising alarms about how AI can distort public life. EU-Moldova Momentum: Moldova and the EU opened the first accession “Fundamentals” cluster, and leaders are set for a second EU-Moldova Summit in Brussels focused on rule of law, reforms, and people-to-people ties. Tourism Funding: NGOs can apply for grants up to 750,000 lei to develop and digitize tourism products, from rural and wine tourism to cultural routes. Active Ageing Grants: Moldova’s Labour ministry awarded 1 million lei in grants to 11 NGOs for projects supporting older people’s active participation in community life.

DescOpera Festival & Philharmonic plans: Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu attended the 10th DescOperă classical music festival in Old Orhei and pledged the Philharmonic will be rebuilt after the fire, saying culture is essential to Moldova’s national identity. Deepfakes & activism: Activists warned about AI deepfake videos circulating online, arguing they’re being used to manipulate public debate. Family vs Pride street politics: A “Family March” in Chișinău drew sharp exchanges between PSRM leader Igor Dodon and PAS, with both sides trading accusations about church, tradition, and Soviet-era deportations. EU accession momentum: Moldova and Ukraine opened the first EU accession cluster (“Fundamentals”), while an EU-Moldova summit in Brussels will review progress under the Growth Plan and discuss next steps. Public services for everyday life: CNAS urged citizens to check their personal social insurance accounts online, and the government outlined major public-sector pay and VAT reforms. Education & skills: Liechtenstein-backed vocational education support continues, and Moldova opened grant funding (up to 750,000 lei) for tourism development. Active ageing grants: 11 NGOs received grants to run community projects for older people. Military training proposal: A bill would require men up to age 55 to complete up to six weeks of training, alongside optional “Patriotic Education” in schools.

EU Accession Talks: Moldova officially opened the first EU negotiation cluster, “Fundamentals,” on June 15, with the EU-Moldova Summit in Brussels set to review progress and push the next steps after the Growth Plan unlocked €504 million. Security & Accountability: Moldova’s SIS warns of Russian intelligence collecting citizens’ personal data for fraud and influence, while an investigation alleges MoldATSA director Dumitru Vangheli falsified his CV. Public Services & Daily Life: CNAS urges people to check their personal social insurance accounts to verify employers’ contributions; meanwhile, a major public-sector pay reform targets about 170,000 workers with 10–30% raises, and VAT changes are framed as limited for most households. Civic & Family Policy: Parliament adopted stricter enforcement for child support non-payment, including arrest or community service. Culture & Education: DRRM will reward over 80 students excelling in Romanian language and Romanian history Olympiads in Chisinau. Active Ageing: Grants support projects for active ageing across Moldova’s communities. EU Migration Debate: Humanitarian groups warn EU migration policy reforms could erode refugee protections. Arts: China National Opera House brings Puccini’s “Turandot” to Europe, with a stop that included Moldova and Romania.

EU-Moldova Accession: President von der Leyen and EU Council chief António Costa will co-host the second EU–Moldova Summit in Brussels, taking stock after the opening of the “fundamentals” negotiation cluster and discussing next steps under the Growth Plan. Public Sector Pay: Moldova is preparing a major public-sector salary reform, with pay raises for about 170,000 employees (10–30%) starting this autumn, plus changes to vacation rules and performance-based allowances. Tax & VAT: Finance Minister Andrian Gavriliță says the VAT reform won’t hit most people hard, estimating effects under 200 lei per month for around 80% of citizens, alongside plans to replace some tax facilities with direct support. Social Insurance Access: CNAS urges citizens to check their personal social insurance accounts to verify employers’ contributions, warning that missing or incorrect records can become harder to fix over time. Military Training Proposal: A bill would require many men up to age 55 to complete up to 42 days of mandatory training, raising questions about exemptions and school “Patriotic Education.” Family Support Enforcement: Parliament adopted tougher rules for parents who evade child support, with administrative arrest or unpaid community service as possible consequences. Education & Healthcare Modernization: EU and EIB funding will modernize 20 model schools and upgrade 10 medical institutions, improving conditions for pupils and patients. Culture & Learning: Over 80 students winning Romanian Language and Romanian History Olympiads will be rewarded in Chisinau on June 23, celebrating academic excellence and cultural values. Travel Link: From June 28, the train “Bessarabia” will run daily between Kyiv and Chișinău, with a new children’s car added.

Active Ageing Grants: Moldova’s Labour and Social Protection Ministry handed out 1 million lei in grants to 11 non-profits to fund projects that keep older people engaged in community and social life. Child Support Enforcement: Parliament adopted a law in second reading that can lead to administrative arrest or unpaid community service for parents who evade child support payments. Tax Transparency Push: Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu says Moldova is studying a single VAT rate and replacing incentives with direct compensation to cut “tax optimization” and send support straight to citizens. Energy Storage Rules: MPs voted in first reading to simplify procedures for installing electric energy storage systems, aiming to reduce bureaucracy and speed renewable investments. Anti-Scam Measures: Authorities are exploring ways to identify fraudulent calls originating outside Moldova, including possible operator IT tools and stronger SIM-related controls. EU Accession Context: EU leaders discussed speeding up support for Ukraine and Moldova, with Ukraine’s Zelensky urging faster EU membership and more missile defence help. Cultural Diplomacy: Moldova’s ambassador to China highlighted literature from Moldova at the Beijing International Book Fair as a bridge for cultural identity and shared heritage. Democracy Forum in Chisinau: A “Common Future” forum brings EU and Moldovan participants together to strengthen democratic resilience and fight hybrid threats. Investigations & Governance: A report alleges MoldATSA chief Dumitru Vangheli may have inaccuracies in his CV, including claims about Air Canada work. Local Politics: Ion Ceban announced a national referendum on local public administration reform, arguing it could “liquidate” villages.

Tax & Transparency: Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu backs a single VAT rate to cut “tax optimization” and speed refunds, with consultations ongoing for sectors like agriculture. Energy & Industry: MPs voted in first reading to simplify rules for installing electric energy storage systems, aiming to reduce bureaucracy and delays for renewables. Scams & Security: Authorities are exploring ways to identify cross-border phone scams, including software for mobile operators to flag suspicious calls. EU & Democracy Forum: A June 19 Chisinau forum will bring 150+ participants to discuss democratic resilience, information security, and the EU accession path. Culture & Memory: Moldova marks the 100th anniversary of physicist Sergiu Radautanu, while deportation memory remains a live political theme. Arts & Events: The DescOperă Classical Music Festival returns in Old Orhei (June 18-21) with opera screenings, concerts, and craft workshops. Digital Life: Moldova launches moldova.md, a unified digital gateway for investors, tourists, and public services. Investigations & Governance: Ziarul de Garda alleges MoldATSA chief Dumitru Vangheli misstated his CV; Air Canada denies he worked as a pilot. Local Politics: Ion Ceban calls for a national referendum on local administration reform, arguing villages could be “liquidated.”

EU Accession: EU member states unanimously opened the first “fundamentals” cluster of accession talks for Ukraine and Moldova in Luxembourg, focusing on rule of law, democratic institutions, and public administration reform. Parliament Watch: Moldova’s MPs meet June 18 with 16 draft laws on the agenda, including five marked with the EU logo, covering minimum wages, banking access, children’s protection, and more. Local Governance: Chisinau mayor Ion Ceban (MAN) says his party will push for a national referendum on local public administration reform, arguing it could “liquidate” villages and weaken schools and rural life. Culture & Identity: Moldova’s ambassador to China highlighted Moldovan literature at the Beijing International Book Fair as a bridge for cultural identity and shared heritage with Romania. Arts in Motion: The DescOperă Classical Music Festival returns for its 10th edition in Old Orhei, mixing opera, classical concerts, and local crafts. Education & Health: USMF graduates took the physician’s and pharmacist’s oath, while the Moldovan State University swimming pool reopens June 25 after renovation. Contemporary Art: Four Moldovan artists will debut at VOLTA Basel 2026, supported by the Culture Ministry to boost international visibility.

Memory & Identity: Moldova marks the 85th anniversary of the first wave of Stalinist deportations from Bessarabia, with President Maia Sandu condemning the tragedy and framing it through European values and national memory. Disinformation Watch: Transnistria-linked voices push panic about “forced reintegration,” claiming Russian language bans and pension cuts—while Moldova’s rules point to much higher minimum pensions and continued minority-language schooling. EU Accession Milestone: The EU unanimously opens the first “fundamentals” negotiation cluster for Ukraine and Moldova, putting rule of law and democratic governance reforms at the center of talks. Culture Calendar: The 10th DescOperă Classical Music Festival kicks off in Old Orhei (June 18–21) with opera screenings, Verdi and Strauss performances, and local craft workshops. Agriculture & Rural Development: Moldova begins talks for €150m EIB financing for Livada Moldovei II, aiming to boost competitiveness, food security, and EU-aligned standards. Health & Education: USMF graduates take the physician’s and pharmacist’s oath, while USM’s renovated swimming pool reopens June 25. Arts Abroad: Moldovan artists join VOLTA Basel 2026 for the first time, supported by the Culture Ministry.

EU Accession: The EU has unanimously opened the first “fundamentals” cluster of accession talks with Moldova (and Ukraine) in Luxembourg, moving the process into substantive negotiations on rule of law, democracy, rights, and institutions. EU–Moldova Cooperation: Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu met EIB Vice-President Karl Nehammer to discuss investment support across transport, energy, agriculture, education, health, and digitalization as accession talks begin. Transnistria Disinformation: Moldova officials and media in the region push back against Tiraspol’s “forced reintegration” scare claims about banning Russian and cutting pensions to 800 lei, citing Moldova’s current pension and minority-education rules. Culture & Memory: Romania and Moldova marked Mihai Eminescu in Vienna, while Sofia saw a restored Eminescu memorial plaque unveiled in front of the Romanian Embassy. Education & Sports: USMF graduates took the physician’s and pharmacist’s oath, and the renovated Moldovan State University swimming pool reopens June 25. Contemporary Art: Four Moldovan artists will debut at VOLTA Basel 2026 with Culture Ministry support.