Moldovan premier meets top European bank representatives

Chisinau, 2 September /MOLDPRES/ - Prime Minister Valeriu Strelet today met a delegation of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the government’s communication and media relations department has reported.

The delegation included Regional Executive Director for Eastern Europe and the Caucasus Francis Malige, EBRD Director for Caucasus, Moldova and Belarus Bruno Balvanera and Head of EBRD Office in Moldova Julia Otto.

The discussion was focused on bilateral cooperation and priority issues of the activity of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development in Moldova.

Valeriu Strelet praised the role of  EBRD in developing investment projects in Moldova. "We appreciate that the EBRD financed over 100 projects in Moldova, with a budget of more than 900 million euros. The EBRD has been and remains a constant partner of Moldova", the premier said.

The sides exchanged opinions on Moldova's economic development, referring specifically to the need to improve the situation in the banking system, improving the business climate, as well as to speed up the implementation of projects in Moldova’s energy sector. In this context, the prime minister stressed the importance of infrastructure development for a sustainable economy, as well as of strengthening the country's banking system by attracting renowned investors and implementation of best management practices and business development, in line with international standards.

The prime minister called for boosting procedures for the implementation of projects initiated with the support of EBRD and other donors in Moldova, expressing the determination of the team he led to speed up these processes. "The government I lead does not only state, but also takes concrete steps to have an effective collaboration with development partners," said Valeriu Strelet.

For their part, EBRD officials reiterated willingness to support Moldova in promoting investments, as well as provide the needed advice to ensure economic development and improve conditions for developing business in Moldova. "EBRD is set to further collaborate with Moldova, including in overcoming the difficult situation in the banking sector," said Regional Executive Director for Eastern Europe and the Caucasus Francis Malige.

Moreover, EBRD representatives stressed the importance of negotiations on the new programme of cooperation between Moldova and the International Monetary Fund; strengthening the banking sector and ensuring the integrity of the justice system. To this effect, the officials expressed EBRD’s willingness to provide the necessary expertise and assistance.

(Editor A. Raileanu)