USA, Sweden sign cooperation agreement to implement competitiveness project for Moldova

Chisinau, 19 December /MOLDPRES/ – The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency, through the Swedish Embassy in Chisinau today signed a cooperation agreement for project implementation competitiveness for Moldova in the amount of $21.8 mln.  

The document provides support to Moldova's efforts in developing its economy, trade market diversification and export orientation, which will increase the competitiveness of key sectors of economy.

U.S. Ambassador to Moldova, James D. Pettit, said at the event that the signed agreement would contribute not only to economic growth of the country but also to development of citizens’ living standards, which is the most important link of society. "USAID Competitiveness Project is an example of cooperation of Moldova and foreign donors for achieving sustainable common objectives. The document is appropriate with strategies and objectives of reforms in Moldova and will contribute directly to the Free Trade Agreement Deep and Comprehensive (DCFTA) signed with the European Union, said Pettit.

At her part, Ambassador of Sweden in Chisinau, Signe Burgstaller said that "implementation of the agreement will contribute to the economic growth of the country, focuses on developing the competitiveness of Moldovan industries on domestic and foreign markets and facilitating the expansion of trade links, especially with EU countries".

The cooperation agreement for project implementation competitiveness in Moldova provides disbursement of $21.8 million over a period of five years, out of which five million from the Swedish government. The money will go towards developing and modernizing sectors of light industry, combined with the wine tourism and ICT sector in combination with creative and precision engineering services. Also, through special programs launched by donors, about 18 thousand Moldovans, including 450 entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to improve their skills.

(Reporter P. Beregoi, editor M. Jantovan)