President Iohannis blames lack of governmental willigness for slow start of works on Targu Mures-Iasi-Ungheni motorway

"The President of Romania reiterated support for this project, stating that the government needs to take responsibility and pledge clear deadlines for this investment, which is a national priority. President Klaus Iohannis also pointed out that despite constant support from the European Commission and availability of the necessary EU funds, there is a lacking willingness on the part of the government for the project's materialization. The Government of Romania has shown a total lack of involvement and vision regarding this investment, as well as all the other large-scale infrastructure projects," the Presidential Administration said in a release. 

With regard to the construction of the Iasi - Targu Neamt motorway section under a public-private partnership, the head of the state said that the decision is questionable at the level of both the European Commission and other specialized EU structures, because it proves the deprioritization of the investment. 

Klaus Iohannis expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the three associations to supporting the construction of the Targu Mures - Iasi - Ungheni motorway and emphasized the importance of getting the civil society involved in determining those responsible to act for implementing these essential projects for the development of Romania. 

In their turn, the representatives of the three associations complained about the authorities' lacking interest for the construction of the motorway and highlighted the negative effects the absence of a high-speed road connecting Targu Mures to Iasi and further to Ungheni has on the North - East Region: massive labor migration, diminished competitiveness and investment. 

"The construction of the motorway would significantly contribute to narrowing the gaps between the country's regions, attracting foreign direct investment, creating fast connections and new jobs," the release said. 

The representatives of the three associations handed President Iohannis a memo on motorways in the Republic of Moldova, documenting the course of civil society actions, the correspondence carried with the authorities in charge, as well as historical, technical, economic, geostrategic and social aspects.

Agerpres