A significant step toward strengthening cross-border cooperation and supporting the EU Solidarity Lanes was taken on 22 August, as Moldovan and Romanian authorities signed a protocol on the implementation of coordinated control at the Giurgiulesti-Galati Border Crossing Point (BCP). The event, hosted at the Galati BCP, gathered key stakeholders committed to improving the efficiency of border operations and facilitating regional trade.

The signing marks a key milestone in advancing the grain corridor and solidarity lanes, which connect Reni (Ukraine), Giurgiulesti (Moldova), and Galati (Romania). This corridor is essential for ensuring the smooth transport of goods — especially grain — across the region, contributing to food security and economic resilience.

The protocol was signed by regional and local representatives of the Moldovan and Romanian Border Police and Customs, reaffirming their commitment to streamlined customs procedures, enhanced security, and improved cross-border cooperation.

From EUBAM, Head of the Mission’s Office in Ukraine, Ciprian Rusu, and Customs Expert, Robert Rosculet, attended the event, reaffirming the Mission’s continued commitment to promoting efficient and secure borders in the region. EUBAM’s role has been to provide technical support and facilitate dialogue among the parties involved.

While the coordinated control arrangement at Giurgiulesti-Galati BCP is a bilateral initiative of Moldovan and Romanian authorities, EUBAM continues to work closely with partners to strengthen connectivity and trade facilitation across the region. EUBAM has also continued its engagement with the European Commission in enhancing the EU-Ukraine Solidarity Lanes, particularly in advancing coordinated control in the Lower Danube transport corridor

The official launch of coordinated control took place on 24 August at 08:00. This is the second BCP along the Moldova–Romania border where coordinated control has been introduced – the first was launched at Leușeni–Albița in 2023.