The EU is providing part of a €59 million (£49m) loan to help modernise the water infrastructure in Moldova’s capital.

The European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is giving €24 million (£20m) each to water firm Apa Canal Chisinau while the EU is contributing €11 million (£9.14m).

The firm will use the cash to finance the extension and rehabilitation of the water and wastewater infrastructure in Chisinau which is expected to improve the efficiency of the the water network and save energy.

According to the EU, key parts of the water network in the city, which has a population of 800,000, are in need of urgent refurbishment as the existing one is “no longer adequate” to meet the demand.

The Ambassador of the European Union to Moldova, Pirkka Tapiola said: “This important programme will enable Apa Canal Chisinau to enhance operating efficiencies, quality of customer services and reduce environmental impacts in its service area in Chisinau.”