Marius Lazurca, Romania’s Ambassador to Moldova, discusses the close ties between the two countries, both culturally and economically. He highlights Moldova’s growing investment appeal.
European Times: Can you describe the relationship between Romania and Moldova?
Marius Lazurca: Romania is Moldova’s most important European trade partner and will soon be the country’s most important trade partner overall. Moreover, our bilateral trade is complex, balanced and sophisticated rather than relying on a single item or set of products, as is the case for trade between Moldova and Russia. In addition, the two countries are culturally compatible, and many investors in Romania see Moldova as an extension of the Romanian market. The political relationship between the two countries has been getting better and better and this positive climate has created new investment and commercial opportunities for entrepreneurs on both sides.
European Times: What are your priorities as ambassador?
Marius Lazurca: I want to foster opportunities for Romanian investors in Moldova as well as opportunities for Moldovan investors in Romania. The new free-trade area between Moldova and the EU will create new opportunities, and Romania aims to become the leader in trade and investment in Moldova.
European Times: Which sectors have Romanian investors targeted in Moldova?
Marius Lazurca: Romanian investors are active in all major sectors of the Moldovan economy. In the banking sector, BCR-Romanian Commercial Bank has a strong reputation, while in the oil sector a major player is Romania’s Petrom. Romanian companies are also playing key roles in Moldova’s construction and distribution sectors, among others. Now Romania wants to participate in new sectors, particularly renewable energy, where Romanian companies have expertise, and ICT, where Moldova is seen as a good base for outsourcing. Agriculture, waste-processing and recycling are other sectors where Romanian companies can provide needed expertise.
European Times: What about Moldova’s ties to the EU?
Marius Lazurca: Moldova is a leader in the Eastern Partnership, where it was the first country to sign a civil-aviation agreement with the EU and the first to sign a visa agreement that allows Moldovan citizens to travel freely to Schengen countries. After the signing of the Association Agreement with the EU on June 27, Moldova is now aiming for EU integration and is already benefiting from significant EU funding. With Romania’s help, Moldova will become a more European country every day.
European Times: What is your personal message about Moldova?
Marius Lazurca: Moldova offers excellent opportunities, both for tourists and for investors. Moldova can serve as a link to the Ukraine and Russia markets as well as to Moldova’s other trade partners to the east.
