Moldovan Presidency's building inaugurated after renovation

Chisinau, 17 October /MOLDPRES/ – The Presidency of Moldova was inaugurated today by President of Moldova, Igor Dodon, and the President of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, which is on an official visit to Chisinau. The edifice was renovated with the financial support of Turkey after it was ravaged during protests of 07 April 2009.

At a press conference, the head of state Igor Dodon, thanked his Turkish counterpart for the financial support given to the renovation of the building. "We are very grateful to you for taking the initiative to help us repair this state symbol. The diplomatic relations of friendship between Moldova and Turkey have existed for 26 years. Over 60 bilateral acts have been signed, and today is a historic day in strategic consolidation between our states. Turkey is an extremely important partner for us, and ATU Gagauzia is a bridge of friendship between our countries. Turkey is an example in defending the national interest and developing the external relations resulting from it. It is not simple, but I hope we will succeed, especially as we want to develop good relations with all external partners," said Dodon.

The official appreciated the bilateral relations in the economic field. "Last year, the bilateral trade amounted to over $400 million. I welcome the work of Turkish investors. At present, there are over 1,300 Turkish-owned enterprises in our country. Moldova benefited from the financial support of Turkey of over $80 million, out of which $20 million was provided in 2018 for the implementation of projects in ATU Gagauzia, Chisinau municipality and other localities in the country. Similarly, Turkey could make an investment in the banking sector in perspectives," said Igor Dodon.

At his turn, Turkish President, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, thanked for hospitality. "I am very happy that today I am here. During the meetings, we discussed bilateral relations. We reiterated that we support the settlement of the situation in the Transnistrian region on a peaceful path. ATU Gagauzia has a special role in our relations and represents a bridge of friendship between our countries. We appreciate the high commercial exchange, however, we tend to achieve even greater successes. We are glad that today we are inaugurating the presidential building, which has been repaired with the support of our people. This project is a symbol of friendship. Turkey will continue to be with Moldova and provide all necessary support," said Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

Also today, the two officials signed a joint declaration of strategic cooperation between Moldova and Turkey. Also, the Turkish President was decorated with the Order of the Republic.

Turkish President, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, is also on a visit to Moldova on 18 October. The official will have a meeting with Prime Minister, Pavel Filip, in Chisinau municipality. The President of Turkey will also go to ATU Gagauzia, where he will inaugurate several social objectives.

(Reporter A. Ciobanu, editor A. Raileanu)