Ukraine is asking Moldova to extend the 50% discount on transit rail transport for Ukrainian cargo into 2027.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Serhii Koretskyi said this at a joint press conference in Kyiv with Moldova’s Prime Minister, Vasile Tofan, Suspilne reports.
According to Koretskyi, Russian attacks on Ukrainian ports are intensifying, harming export flows and necessitating reliable alternative routes.
The Prime Minister thanked Moldova for granting a 50% discount on rail transit through its territory. He noted that, thanks to this, transport volumes have increased significantly, and three times as much grain has passed in transit.
“We have approached (the Moldovan government, – ed.) with a request to extend these terms into 2027 as well, so that we have predictable movement of export flows both for Ukraine and for Moldova. It seems to me this is mutually beneficial: additional revenue for Moldova and additional diversification for Ukraine,” Koretskyi said.
To increase transit volumes, the Ukrainian side is also proposing the use of its own locomotives and crews on the Ocnita–Beresti railway section.
“We are also ready to share all our experience from Ukrainian Railways gained during the full-scale invasion – the speed of restoration, the speed of response, repairs and so on,” the Prime Minister added.
In addition, Ukraine and Moldova intend to strengthen the security of border crossing points.
“I welcome Moldova’s readiness to launch joint controls at two more border crossing points: the temporary Yampil–Coseuti bridge is useful for both countries. The main works should be completed by the end of the year,” Koretskyi said.
For his part, Vasile Tofan noted that the countries are actively working on developing road and rail corridors, the “European Solidarity Lanes”, modernising border crossing points and expanding joint border controls.
The sides are also discussing the situation on the Dniester River. In particular, this concerns better coordination of water releases, taking into account inflow volumes and the water needs of settlements located downstream.