Photo (c) Tatiana Rusnac
President Maia Sandu made a speech at the opening of the forum. She emphasized the important role of winemaking in the history, economy and identity of Moldovans. “In Moldova, wine is not just an agricultural product, vineyards and wine tell us the story of centuries. The vine carries the history of our traditions, family ties and quiet but steadfast resistance,” Maia Sandu said.
The head of state also referred to the transformation of the Moldovan wine sector over the last two decades, the revival of local varieties and the sector’s contribution to the development of tourism.
“The fact that Moldova is hosting this year’s World Grape and Wine Congress is a recognition of the path taken by our small and large producers, the traditions carefully preserved and the innovations boldly adopted,” the president said.
The Congress is held under the auspices of the International Grape and Wine Organization under the motto: “Shaping the future of wine: embracing sustainability, enhancing value, encouraging innovation”.
The event is meant to be a unique opportunity to promote Moldova as a wine-producing country with the largest area of vineyards per capita in the world. Today, Moldova has about 4 hectares of vineyards per 100 people. More than 80% of wines produced in the country are exported to the European market and other countries of the world. The wine sector generates about 3% of the national GDP.
OIV is an intergovernmental organization headquartered in Paris, which unites 51 member states and coordinates scientific, technical and economic activities in the wine sector worldwide. The Republic of Moldova has been a member of the OIV since 1992.
The work of the Congress will last until June 20.
