An EU-backed programme enabling the European Investment Bank (EIB) to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Republic of Moldova, Georgia and Ukraine was launched in Chisinau on 4 July.

The programme is part of the EU’s Neighbourhood Investment Facility (NIF), aiming to provide a comprehensive package of instruments designed to help companies to make the most of the opportunities arising from the implementation of the free trade agreements the three countries have signed with the EU, according to EU Neighbours East Info.

This EU contribution forms part of the European Commission’s wider EU4Business initiative, which brings together EU-funded programmes supporting SME development and improving the business environment in the Eastern Partnership region.

By The Financial.