The Governor of the National Bank of Moldova, Octavian Armașu, had a meeting with the U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova, Dereck J. Hogan.

The officials discussed mainly the progress of reforms in the banking sector and maintaining financial stability. I was also approached the perspective of the conclusion by the Republic of Moldova of a new agreement with the International Monetary Fund. In this regard, the discussions focused on the IMF mission, which will come next week with opinions on macroeconomic policy assessment, as well a number of issues concerning the National Bank of Moldova’s activity, in particular the importance of maintaining the central bank independence in order to ensure the financial stability of the Republic of Moldova.

In this context, Octavian Armașu mentioned the efforts of the central bank and the results obtained in ensuring governance and control mechanisms, which is an important object of the assessments carried out by this international organization for providing financial assistance. The Governor of the NBM referred to the importance of the commitments to be undertaken by the Republic of Moldova in a future program with the IMF amid the current epidemiological situation, which will support the long-term development of our country.

For his part, the U.S. Ambassador praised the progress of reforms in the banking sector and their continuity, emphasizing the need for the authorities to work together to ensure the stability and support of the country's economic progress. The U.S. official stressed the need to maintain the independence of the NBM.

Concluding the discussions, Octavian Armașu highly appreciated the U.S. support. In turn, Dereck J. Hogan expressed the hope that the Republic of Moldova will be able to sign the new program with the IMF and, within the commitments undertaken, to continue to make progress that will support the economic development.