Moldovan PM meets U.S. ambassador

Chisinau, 17 February /MOLDPRES/ – Prime Minister Pavel Filip had a meeting today with US Ambassador to Moldova, James Pettit. The discussions covered the present framework of bilateral relations, while 2017 being a significant one in this regard, since marking 25 years of diplomatic relations between Moldova and the USA, as well as priority directions of cooperation between sides, the government’s communication and protocol department has reported.

The prime minister said that the US is a strategic partner of Moldova and the support offered by the United States is very valuable and important. "We are grateful for your support. Support US and EU was crucial to stabilizing the economic and financial situation in 2016. The highlight of last year is the conclusion of an agreement with the IMF, "he stressed.

Pavel Filip pointed out that 2017 should become a year of sustainable economic development and increased investment and firm commitment of the authorities to continue the European course of the country. "Both the government and Parliament are determined to keep as priority the implementation of the Association Agreement EU-Moldova and to continue joint efforts to achieve the commitments," said the Prime Minister.

The prime minister referred to the reform agenda of priorities, among which highlighted the central public administration reform, representing a particular importance to government. "Without enhance the capabilities of the central government, we shall not be able to ensure the successful implementation of the reform agenda and, in this regard, we need a strong partner", said Pavel Filip.

At his turn, US Ambassador to Moldova encouraged the Government to continue its efforts to implement reforms aimed at ultimately improving the population’s living standards. Especially, diplomat referred to cooperation between states in economy and strengthening democracy, areas where last year the Government of Moldova and US Government concluded two support agreements to increase trade and investment into key sectors, respectively for a more effective and accountable democratic government, with a total value of about $98.7 million.

The USA is Moldova’s strategic partner. Since 1992 the USA has provided assistance to Moldova worth over $1.4 billion, including $45 million US in 2016.