This was stated by Vladimir Bolea, Minister of Infrastructure and Regional Development, who spoke online at a meeting of ministers responsible for regional development in the Danube Region, held in Sofia under the auspices of the Bulgarian Presidency of the European Union Strategy for the Danube Region (Strategia Uniunii Europene pentru Regiunea Dunării - SUERD). He outlined Moldova's priorities in reducing territorial disparities, developing cities and regions, and improving transportation links with neighboring countries. Particular attention was paid to the role of cities as development hubs for the surrounding rural areas. "For our country, reducing territorial disparities and harnessing the development potential of cities and regions are closely linked to the goals of European integration. This approach is particularly relevant in the context of administrative-territorial reform and efforts to strengthen the capacity of local authorities. Strong regions, local institutions with solid capacity, and accessible public services are essential for reforms and investments to bring about improvements in people's lives," Vladimir Bolea emphasized. Another important aspect of his speech was ensuring Moldova's transport connectivity with Romania, Ukraine, and the European transport network. The Minister of Infrastructure and Regional Development presented projects through which our country aims to improve cross-border connections and facilitate the transport of goods and passengers. These include the modernization of border crossing points with Romania, improvements to the road network on the Galați–Giurgulești–Reni section, and the modernization of the Iași–Ungheni railway line. Vladimir Bolea also addressed the prospects for funding after 2027, advocating for closer alignment of the Danube region's priorities with future European Union policies and programs. For candidate countries, these opportunities should facilitate both the implementation of investments and the strengthening of the institutional capacity necessary for the preparation, management, and implementation of projects. The Minister of Infrastructure and Regional Development highly commended the efforts of the Bulgarian Presidency within the EU Strategy for the Danube Region to strengthen its role in supporting the European Union's enlargement. "For Moldova, participation in this platform means an opportunity to cooperate with member states, learn from their experience, and build sustainable institutional partnerships that directly contribute to preparations for EU accession," said Vladimir Bolea. // 03.11.2026 — InfoMarket.