Moldovan, Romanian premiers approach EU agenda, bilateral ties

Chisinau, 27 August /MOLDPRES/- Prime Minister Valeriu Strelet and his Romanian counterpart, Victor Ponta, today discussed consolidation of bilateral relations and implementation of agenda on Moldova's European integration. The talks were held within the visit to Chisinau paid by Romanian premier on Independence Day of Moldova, the government's communication and media relations department has reported.

The two premiers had a face-to-face meeting, then they participated in a bilateral meeting in enlarged format. At the end, they held a joint news conference.

Strelet highly appreciated Romania's support for carrying out Moldova's European agenda. He said that Romania had become the main trade partner of Moldova, and the economic relations had a positive dynamics. "We further rely to meet the goal on Moldova's adjustment to European standards and values by modernising the country, eradicating corruption and consolidating the rule of law state. I am sure that we will keep a dense schedule of meetings and bilateral consultations, that we will enjoy firm support of Romania and your personal one in implementing priorities of bilateral agenda, as well as Moldova's European integration", he concluded.

For his part, Ponta congratulated Moldova on the 24th anniversary of independence. "Romania was the first country which recognized Moldova's independence. Romania is the only country in the work having one interest in Moldova - to be well for citizens. You can rely on our help," Ponta said.

The Romanian premoer invited the Moldovan cabinet to organising a joint meeting as soon as possible in Tulcea. Also, he reiterated willingness to provide assistance to Moldovan government in preparations for negotiations with the International Monetary Fund. "I wish you success in negotiations with the international financial institutions. We can back you anytime", he said.

Also, the officials signed a protocol to extend the term for agreement between the Romanian and Moldovan governments on implementing programme on technical and financial assistance. It implies a grant amounting to 100 million euros provided by Romania to Moldova.

 (Editor A. Răileanu)