‘The Republic of Moldova is an important economic partner for Bulgaria, there is unrealised potential that will contribute to expanding cooperation between our countries.’ This was stated by Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry Irina Shtonova during the ninth session of the Intergovernmental Bulgarian-Moldovan Commission for Economic Cooperation. It was held after an eight-year hiatus under the co-chairmanship of Deputy Minister Shtonova and the Minister for Energy of the Republic of Moldova Victor Parlicov.
During the meeting Deputy Minister Shtonova stressed that it is important to have more business initiatives in the form of exchange of business visits and delegations, holding forums. This will help companies on both sides to better understand the existing potential for growth in mutual trade. The topics and issues discussed included intellectual property, agriculture, transport, information and communication technologies, energy, education and science, culture, tourism, regional development and public works, etc. Opportunities for expanding investment cooperation between the two countries were also discussed.
A business forum organized by the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BTPP) and the Invest Moldova Agency (IMA) was held during the Intergovernmental Commission, which was attended by Bulgarian and Moldovan companies from the pharmaceutical, energy, agriculture, textile and ICT sectors. Successful Bulgarian entrepreneurs doing business in Moldova were also presented, as well as Moldovans who have established business in Bulgaria.
During the meeting an Agreement was signed between the Governments of Bulgaria and Moldova for the opening of a branch of the Ruse University ‘Angel Kanchev’ in Taraclia, as well as a Memorandum of Cooperation between the InvestBulgaria Agency (BAI) and the Invest Moldova Agency (IMA).