The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is interested in developing several investment projects in different social and economic areas in Moldova, especially, in the energy, banking and infrastructure sectors. The statement was made in London at a meeting between Parliament Speaker Andrian Candu and EBRD First Vice President Phil Bennett.

“We have proved political will for reform implementation last year and will double the effort this year, providing actions and results. There is political will, there is openness to change the situation and there is confidence that we can stabilize the banking sector and create an attractive environment for investors” , said Candu. He noted that there was openness in the parliamentary majority to correct legislation, where necessary, as the infrastructure projects to be carried out exemplarily.

Bennett said that the financial institution was interested to support direct foreign investments for Moldova.”There have been made great steps in 2016 and many achievements have been recorded. We can develop more projects having as partners the Moldovan government and parliament” , Bennett said.

The speaker announced interest in creating alternative instruments to solve commercial litigations. EBRD with the support of the UK Government provides technical assistance for promoting and implementing commercial mediation, disputes in business community. Mediation is one of alternative tools improving access to justice by lower costs and solutions provided in reduced terms compared to traditional courts.

The sides approached expanding investments in local projects on energy efficiency and infrastructure. Also, they discussed the implementation of initiated projects. Candu explained, in this context, the importance of public administration reform in implementing reforms and projects.

The speaker reiterated Moldova’s interest in implementing projects on gas pipeline construction Ungheni-Chisinau and interconnection line Isaccea-Vulcanesti-Chisinau, which would enable our country to connect via Romania to the EU energy system.

Attending the event were Philip Bennett, EBRD Managing Director for Eastern Europe and the Caucasus Francis Malige, EBRD Director for Financial Institutions in Moldova, Ukraine and Belarus Henry Russell and Associate Director, political advisor Oleksandr Pavluk.