Romania Eyes Strategic Acquisition of Moldova's Giurgiulesti Port

Romania aims to purchase Moldova's Giurgiulesti port from the EBRD to enhance its logistics influence in Europe. The port, near Romania and Ukraine, is key for grain exports and EU integration. Romania has initiated talks for the acquisition amidst increasing investments at its Constanta port.

Romania announced plans on Wednesday to purchase Moldova's Giurgiulesti port from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), a move set to bolster its logistics role in central and southeast Europe.

Strategically positioned near Moldova's borders with Romania and Ukraine, the Giurgiulesti port provides critical river and sea access 134 kilometers from the Black Sea. Romania, a staunch ally of Moldova and advocate for its EU accession, sees significant benefits in this acquisition.

Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Romania has emerged as a primary alternative grain export route, with significant investments directed towards its Black Sea port of Constanta. The Romanian government approved a memorandum on Wednesday to initiate negotiations with the EBRD for acquiring Danube Logistics SRL, the operator of the Giurgiulesti port.

(With inputs from agencies.)