The Steering Committee (SC) of the Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) Moldova, which consists of Government members and representatives of the civil society and is chaired by Prime Minister Iurie Leanca, approved the Closure Plan for the U.S. Government’s US$262 million Compact. This plan states the actions to be undertaken by September 1, 2015 – the official end date of the Compact, and after that date to make sure that the investments in road infrastructure and agriculture are sustainable, IPN reports.

According to the plan, in 2015 MCA Moldova will continue the rehabilitation works at eight irrigation systems to be put into operation next summer; monitor the quality of the Sarateni-Soroca road that has been already opened for traffic; continue the post-harvest lending etc.

The SC members also approved the re-allocation of US$1.2 million from the Compact funds to supporting small farmers who intend to buy irrigation equipment and develop their businesses.

Moreover, the SC members approved the audit report on the Compact’s financial operations, which found no violations and confirms the appropriate and efficient management of the funds disbursed for Compact activities.

Jeffrey Goveia, MCC Deputy Country Director, informed the SC members that the plan might be revised in 2015.

At the SC meeting, Prime Minister Leanca mentioned that after the Compact ends, its remaining funds should be used for new infrastructure projects.

The 2010-2015 Compact, funded by the U.S. Government through the Millennium Challenge Corporation, aims to increase the incomes of the Moldovan people by developing road infrastructure, rehabilitating irrigation systems and encouraging the transition to high value agriculture.