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Following the signatures, and upon the completion of the related ratification processes, the association agreement will enter into retroactive effect as of 1 January 2024. Businesses, public administrations and other eligible organisations in Moldova will be able to access the calls of the Digital Europe Programme, a programme with an overall budget of €7.5 billion in the 2021-2027 period.
Thierry Breton, EU Commissioner for the Internal Market, said:
The signing of the Digital Europe Programme association agreement marks an important step in our partnership with Moldova. Its participation in the programme will boost Moldova's digitalisation, benefiting SMEs and the overall economy. It is part of the EU's efforts to support Moldova on its path to the EU and in addressing the consequences of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine.
The Programme's support is enhanced by the granting of a 95% reduction in the annual financial contributions made by Moldova to participate in the Digital Europe Programme until the Programme's end in 2027. Participants from Moldova will be able to take part in projects that deploy digital technologies across the EU in specific areas such as artificial intelligence and advanced digital skills. The funding will also support the setup of Digital Innovation Hubs in Moldova.
The Digital Europe Programme's funds will complement funding available to Moldova through other EU programmes such as Horizon Europe. The objectives and specific topic areas that are currently eligible for funding are detailed in the Work Programmes.