^{Today, we embark on a journey into the heart of Moldova’s financial landscape with a distinguished guest - Mrs. Anca Dragu, the recently appointed Governor of the National Bank of Moldova. With a career spanning over 27 years in finance, including pivotal roles as the former Romanian Finance Minister and President of the Romanian Senate, Mrs. Dragu brings a wealth of expertise to her new role.}

^{In a recent exclusive statement to Nine O’Clock, Mrs. Dragu laid out her vision as the Governor, shedding light on the critical need to fortify the independence and integrity of the Central Bank. Today, we delve deeper into this vision, exploring the strategies she envisions to navigate Moldova towards economic stability and European integration.}

Interviewer: Mrs. Dragu, thank you for joining us. In your recent statement, you highlighted the significance of focusing on the independence and integrity of the Central Bank to boost confidence in the institution and contribute to the European integration process. Could you provide more details on the specific measures or policies you plan to implement to achieve this objective?

Anca Dragu: Certainly. Strengthening the independence and integrity of the Central Bank is a fundamental priority. Transparency will be a cornerstone of our policies, fostering confidence not only in the Central Bank but also in the broader banking sector. This, in turn, is crucial for contributing to the European integration process by creating a stable and reliable financial environment.

Interviewer: You also expressed the honor of contributing to Moldova’s European course and underscored the need for strong, independent institutions. How do you envision Moldova actively contributing to the completion of the European project under your leadership, and what challenges do you anticipate?

Anca Dragu: Contributing to Moldova’s European course is indeed an honor. Our focus is on building strong, independent institutions to underpin economic stability and prosperity. Challenges will undoubtedly arise, but with patience, determination, and strategic navigation, we can overcome them and actively contribute to Moldova’s integration into the European community.

Interviewer: Turning to your role as Governor, you emphasized the need to improve access to finance for the private sector. Could you elaborate on the specific strategies you plan to implement to enhance access to finance, and what impact do you anticipate this having on Moldova’s economic landscape?

Anca Dragu: Improving access to finance for the private sector is a critical aspect of our vision. Our strategies will revolve around creating an environment conducive to lending, streamlining processes, and fostering close collaboration with financial institutions. By facilitating access to finance, we aim to stimulate economic growth and contribute to a more prosperous future for Moldova.

Interviewer: You also mentioned the preparation of the banking sector for co-financing needs related to pre-accession EU funds. What steps do you plan to take to ensure the banking sector is adequately prepared for this, and why is aligning with EU funding requirements crucial for Moldova?

Anca Dragu: Preparing the banking sector for co-financing needs related to pre-accession EU funds is pivotal for Moldova’s alignment with European standards. We will work closely with the banking sector to ensure compliance with EU funding requirements. This alignment is crucial as it enhances Moldova’s eligibility for EU funds, fostering economic development and integration.

Interviewer: In conclusion, what message would you like to convey to the citizens of Moldova as their new Governor, and what aspirations do you have for the country’s future under your leadership?

Anca Dragu: While challenges may arise, with patience, determination, and collaborative efforts, we can significantly contribute to the completion of Moldova’s European project. My aspiration is to see a future where Moldova stands strong, economically stable, and prosperous within the European community.

Mihai Manea Publisher Nine O’Clock: Thank you very much Your Excellency for this interview for Nine O’Clock!

by Mihai Manea Publisher Nine O’Clock