The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, Victoriabank's main shareholder, has expressed concern over the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office's allegations against Victoriabank and the decision to seize the bank's assets in connection with the 2014 investigation into fraudulent Moldovan banking.

In a press release, the EBRD expresses confidence that the investigation will respect Victoriabank's customers as well as its current shareholders and will be conducted in accordance with due process.

"Failure to do so risks destabilizing the entire financial sector, with serious consequences for Moldova's economy," the EBRD statement said.

As the largest institutional investor in Moldova, the EBRD considers a strong and stable banking sector to be a precondition for financial stability and one of the pillars of sustainable economic development and growth.

"A strong and stable banking sector is also of major importance in attracting local and international investors. Together with a transparent judiciary, the rule of law and full investor protection guaranteed by state institutions, it is a key element of a solid business environment. The EBRD remains determined to support the Moldovan authorities in achieving these goals, "the EBRD said in a statement.

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development has been a shareholder in Victoriabank for 20 years. Currently, the EBRD and Banca Transilvania, through VB Investment Holding in the Netherlands, hold 72.19% of the bank's shares.