“The Romanian government is part of the family for us. We work closely together and promote our joint projects in all directions,” Munteanu said, thanking Bucharest for its support and cooperation.
Munteanu noted Romania’s assistance in the energy crisis caused by Russia’s attacks on the Vulcanesti-Isaccea line. Before the line was restored, the supply of consumers in Moldova was ensured also through alternative routes, including four 110-kV interconnection lines with Romania.
For his part, Romanian Prime Minister Ilie Bolhogan reiterated that Bucharest will continue supporting Chisinau both at the bilateral level and in the European integration process.
“Romania supports Moldova’s European path and welcomes the start of technical negotiations with the European Union. We will contribute to the continuation of this process at the political level as well,” he emphasized.
Bolojan said Romanian experts are already cooperating with the Moldovan authorities to adjust the legislation and practices to the European standards.
The talks paid special attention to the economic and infrastructure agenda. The two prime ministers discussed the development of joint interconnection projects, the improvement of the conditions of crossing the border for citizens and goods, as well as cooperation in the energy and transport sectors. In particular, they discussed the transfer of the Giurgiulesti Port under the management of the Port of Constanta and the construction of the A8 highway (Pascani – Iasi – Ungheni).
“Shoulder to Shoulder”
Within an official visit to Bucharest, Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu held a meeting with Romanian President Nicusor Dan.
“We work shoulder to shoulder, united by a common goal – to see Moldova firmly integrated into the big European family. I am confident that together with such reliable friends and partners as Romania, Moldova will move forward,” the prime minister said.
The sides stressed that close cooperation in the energy interconnection and infrastructure is crucial for the common security. Investments in high-voltage power transmission lines, modernization of schools and universities, as well as support for competitive businesses are seen as an important contribution to the stability of the region.
Single market
The Prime Minister also held a meeting with representatives of the American Chamber of Commerce in Romania. He invited the members of the Chamber to invest more actively in Moldova, noting “favorable conditions for business development, including due to the close economic ties between Moldova and Romania, as well as prospects related to the European integration”.
According to Munteanu, Moldova and Romania can act as a single market for investors, capable of attracting large projects. He named information technology, infrastructure and tourism among the most promising areas.
“Romania remains Moldova’s main trade partner and the largest foreign investor: the volume of investments amounts to about 300 million dollars, and 1,744 enterprises with Romanian capital operate in the country,” the Moldovan government’s press service said.
