International Trade Facilitation Forum highlights EU’s Solidarity Lanes as key catalyst for Ukraine and Moldova’s EU Integration
The European Commission’s Solidarity Lanes initiative took centre stage at the 3rd International Trade Facilitation Forum, held on 10 October in Chisinau. Co-organised by the European Union Border Assistance Mission to Moldova and Ukraine (EUBAM) and the Moldovan Customs Service, the forum gathered high-level representatives to evaluate the initiative’s impact on regional connectivity, trade facilitation, and the broader integration of both countries into the European Union.
Originally introduced as an emergency response to the blockade of Ukrainian ports, the Solidarity Lanes have since transformed into a strategic framework aimed at enhancing EU connectivity and fostering regional collaboration.
“The Solidarity Lanes are no longer just an anti-crisis measure; they are part of a transformative process supporting both countries’ integration with the EU and the development of multimodal transport corridors,” said Slawomir Pichor, Head of EUBAM. “We must ensure they remain a reliable alternative for Ukraine’s access to global markets and safeguard their role in fostering stability and economic recovery.”
Key discussions revolved around the initiative’s contributions to modernising customs and border management, aligning procedures with EU standards, and integrating the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine into the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T). The need for EU financial support and infrastructure development to ensure the longevity of these efforts was also a significant topic.
Participants at the forum reiterated their commitment to advancing border and transport infrastructure, promoting digitalisation efforts, and creating a resilient framework that maintains EU connectivity while addressing the regional challenges posed by Russia’s ongoing aggression.
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