The Governor of the National Bank of Moldova, Anca Dragu, participated in the European Young Leaders - EYL40 seminar, organised in Bucharest by the independent think tank Friends of Europe. The event brought together high-level decision-makers from European institutions, political and economic leaders, as well as academics and civil society representatives in a collective debate on the theme: "How democracy ends (and begins again)".
The event provided a framework for reflection on the transformations shaping today’s Europe, from geopolitical and economic crises to digital, environmental, and social challenges. Participants addressed topics such as leadership in times of uncertainty, disinformation, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and the role of culture in revitalising democracy.
During the session entitled "A new cycle: aligning finance with Europe's ambitions", MS Anca Dragu highlighted the responsibility of public institutions in facilitating the transition towards a sustainable and resilient economic model. "Europe needs courageous leaders to build bridges between finance and a sustainable future, to turn uncertainty into action and crisis into opportunity. The Republic of Moldova is resolutely pursuing a path of digital transformation and integration into the European financial space, fully embracing the ambitions of a green and sustainable economy," stated the Governor of the NBM.
Ms. Anca Dragu emphasised that, in a global climate dominated by instability, aligning investments with the European Union's climate neutrality objectives is not only a necessity, but also a moral obligation. "Aligning finance with Europe's ambitions requires vision, balance and long-term commitment. For countries like the Republic of Moldova, this process is a historic opportunity to rebuild competitive economies aligned with European standards, bringing real benefits to people and the environment."
Panel discussions highlighted recent crises that have emphasized the need for structural change in Europe and collaboration between the public and private sectors, the pressure these crises have placed on Europe's public and private systems, and the urgent need for strategic investments. A key objective declared by the EU is the transition to climate neutrality by 2050, which will require annual investments of around 2% of GDP. In this respect, society's support for the European Green Deal and the channelling of capital towards sustainable investments is vital to accelerate the decarbonization process.
Friends of Europe is an independent think tank based in Brussels, dedicated to promoting an inclusive, sustainable and democratic Europe. Through programmes such as European Young Leaders (EYL40), the organisation brings together key leaders from across Europe to develop innovative solutions to current challenges and shape transformative policies for Europe's future.
