The first edition of the Romania-Republic of Moldova Economic Forum (F.E.R.M.), a major event organised by the European Businesswomen's Federation (PEFA), under the auspices of the National Bank of Moldova (NBM) and in partnership with the Embassy of Romania in Chișinău, brought together today in Chișinău, high-level officials, economic leaders, and entrepreneurs from both sides of the Prut River.

At the opening of the event, which provided a framework for dialogue to identify opportunities for collaboration and develop sustainable and inclusive projects, the President of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu, stated that Romania is the most important investor, with over 250 million euros invested annually and over 1,700 Romanian-capital companies active on the Moldovan market. The head of state highlighted that accelerated digitalisation and fiscal reforms are making the Republic of Moldova more business-friendly.

"Moldova is open to investment and growth. Growth that would not have been possible if we had not worked together with Romania on projects that improve people's lives. We have energy interconnections that connect us to the European market. We are completing the Chișinău-Vulcănești power line and preparing two more. We have repaired bridges and have new ones under construction, we have renovated roads and railways, and we have set up infrastructure projects that bring our communities closer and facilitate new economic opportunities," said Ms. Maia Sandu.

The Romania-Republic of Moldova Economic Forum highlights the shared vision for a prosperous European future, emphasised NBM Governor Anca Dragu at the beginning of her speech, stressing that the development of a competitive investment climate is based on policies and initiatives built on principles of fairness.

The Governor of the NBM highlighted the institution's commitment to the process of alignment with European standards and the success achieved through Moldova's acceptance into the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), which means faster and more accessible transactions for citizens and companies.

"Integration into SEPA strengthens the process of modernising and aligning the payment system with European standards, which began with the launch of MIA Instant Payments. I have the privilege of leading an institution whose mission is to ensure financial stability and which is also the architect of the transformation of the Moldovan financial system towards European standards. Our mission transcends the traditional responsibilities of a central bank; we are the facilitators of a modern, digitalised and inclusive economy," emphasised Ms Anca Dragu.

The Governor of the NBM reaffirmed the importance of the strategic partnership between the Republic of Moldova and Romania, which is realised through the exchange of experience and concrete, modern policies to strengthen the financial system.

In the same context, His Excellency Cristian-Leon Țurcanu, Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Romania to the Republic of Moldova, highlighted the significance of bilateral economic partnership and dialogue, which "benefits all citizens on both sides of the Prut River and covers all the essential areas for the development of a society."

"This event brings together current and future business partners, business ideas, and initiatives for sustainable economic growth. It encourages and recognises the contribution of women entrepreneurs to the economic development of society, providing a clear example of how the European space is one of equity, equal opportunities and gender equality," stated the Ambassador of Romania to the Republic of Moldova.

During the event, the inaugural edition of the Women's Entrepreneurship Index was officially launched in Chișinău – an analysis and monitoring tool that evaluates women's participation and impact in the business environment, providing concrete data on their access to resources, financing, entrepreneurial education, and decision-making positions. The Index was launched in Bucharest in May 2025.

In presenting this innovative tool in Chișinău, Andreea Negru, president of PEFA, mentioned that dialogue between business leaders, decision-makers, and civil society is important for understanding the real needs of women entrepreneurs and launched a public call to action.

"We are talking about a collective responsibility, and we are committed to working with decision-makers to contribute to the development of effective and bold public policies, to invest in entrepreneurial education, to ensure fair access to financing, and to provide real support for women in business, administration, and public life," concluded Ms. Andreea Negru.

Two panel discussions were organised as part of the Romania-Republic of Moldova Economic Forum, held under the auspices of the NBM. The FinanciarELE panel was moderated by Ms. Anca Dragu, Governor of the NBM, and focused on a debate about balanced leadership for a strong economy.

The second panel was dedicated to discussions on the development of bilateral relations between Romania and the Republic of Moldova and presented perspectives on cooperation in sectors such as energy, banking, defence, and social protection.

The forum participants reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening economic relations between the two countries by promoting a fair, competitive, and sustainable entrepreneurial environment.

The event was organised by the European Businesswomen's Federation (PEFA), under the auspices of the National Bank of Moldova and in partnership with the Embassy of Romania in Chișinău, with the support of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Moldova and with the Association of Romanian Investors in the Republic of Moldova as a partner.

Forumul Economic România – Republica Moldova (F.E.R.M), organizat de Patronatul European al Femeilor de Afaceri PEFA, sub egida Băncii Naționale a Moldovei, în parteneriat strategic cu Ambasada României în Republica Moldova.