Today, 1 October 2026, the Governor of the National Bank of Moldova (NBM), Ms Anca Dragu, held a meeting with Mr Gediminas Šimkus, Governor of the Bank of Lithuania. The discussions focused on developing cooperation between the two institutions, continuing technical assistance and supporting the Republic of Moldova’s European integration.

“Lithuania’s experience is valuable to us in understanding how the reforms required for European integration can be prepared and implemented. Cooperation between our institutions gives NBM specialists the opportunity to examine solutions that have already been tested and adapt them to the needs of the Republic of Moldova. We appreciate the support provided by our Lithuanian colleagues in developing financial supervision and wish to continue this professional exchange in areas where further reforms are required. Through this cooperation, we can better prepare the institution and the financial sector for the requirements and opportunities of the European market,” Ms Anca Dragu emphasised.

In this regard, the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2023 expanded the framework for cooperation and the exchange of experience between the two central banks. At the same time, the technical assistance provided by the Bank of Lithuania through the European Union Twinning project, implemented during 2021–2023, contributed to strengthening the macroprudential framework and the supervision of the insurance sector.

As part of the ongoing dialogue on cooperation, the discussions also covered the technical assistance programme of the European System of Central Banks (ESCB), financed by the European Union and planned for 2027–2028, as well as the prospect of Lithuania assuming the Presidency of the Council of the European Union from 1 January 2027.

The NBM Governor referred to the progress made in integrating the Republic of Moldova’s financial sector into the European market. Almost one year after SEPA transfers became operational, they account for more than 81% of the number and approximately 47% of the value of cross-border euro transactions. Alongside participation in the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), the development of the MIA Instant Payments system is contributing to the modernisation of services available to citizens and businesses.

The discussions also examined macroeconomic developments and risks associated with the external environment. The NBM Governor highlighted the resilience of the financial sector and the commitment to aligning with European Union requirements concerning central bank independence, which underpins the credibility of monetary policy and the institution’s capability to fulfil its mandate.

Mr Gediminas Šimkus’s visit to Chișinău takes place in the context of his participation in the second edition of the annual International Conference, “Policy Coordination for European Convergence: Fiscal space and monetary anchoring under accelerated integration”, organised by the National Bank of Moldova, Banque de France and the National Bank of Romania from 1 to 2 October 2026.