The decision of Constanta Port to take over the Giurgiulesti Free International Port is of major significance for Romania and the entire Black Sea region, Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Ciprian Serban wrote on his Facebook page on Friday.

"The Constanta Port will take over the Giurgiulesti Free International Port following the completion of the process initiated by the EBRD to identify a strategic investor. This is a highly significant decision for Romania and for the entire Black Sea region. Giurgiulesti is the only sea-river port of the Republic of Moldova and an essential node at the intersection of the Danube with the Black Sea basin. Its integration within a common vision with the Constanta Port strengthen the Danube-Black sea logistics corridor and creates a stronger regional platform for trade, transit and investment. In the current context, marked by geopolitical shifts and the need to diversify trade routes, Romania is taking an active role in developing strategic infrastructure in its vicinity," the Minister said.

According to him, the move will help Constanta Port increase operational capacity in the region, streamline commercial flows to and from the Republic of Moldova, and supports the reconstruction of Ukraine through safe alternative routes, and promote better integration of the Republic of Moldova into the European transport network (TEN-T).

"Constanta Port has demonstrated in recent years its capacity to manage record volumes and implement major infrastructure investments, in energy and digitalisation. Expanding this model to Giurgiulesti means investments, modernisation and a predictable development, in full observance of the legislation and sovereignty of the Republic of Moldova. (...) Romania strengthen its strategic corridor and its position as a logistics hub at the Black Sea," the Minister also said on the social network.

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) on Thursday informed the close sale of Danube Logistics, the operator of the Giurgiulesti Port (GIFP) to the National Company the Administration of the Constanta Maritime Port, held by the Romanian state.

The transaction underscores the strategic partnership between Romania and the Republic of Moldova, supporting deeper economic and trade ties. As Moldova's main maritime gateway, Giurgiulesti International Free Port (GIFP) handles over 70% of the country's waterborne imports and exports, playing a key role in maintaining supply chains and supporting economic stability.

Constanta Port has committed to making significant long-term investments in the further development of Giurgiulesti Port. The strategic goal is to expand its capacity, improve infrastructure, and strengthen its position in the Black Sea region and the Danube basin.

Since acquiring Danube Logistics in 2021, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has been the sole shareholder of Giurgiulesti Port. AGERPRES (RO - writing by: Oana Tilica; EN - writing by: Cristina Zaharia)