A delegation from the National Bank of Moldova, led by Governor Anca Dragu, is on a visit to France, where it is holding a series of meetings aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in the context of Moldova's European path.

The program of the visit includes meetings with Her Excellency Corina Călugăru, Ambassador of the Republic of Moldova to France, with the Banque de France management, as well as with representatives of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

During the meetings, discussions focused on cooperation between the NBM and the Banque de France including in the areas of banking supervision, financial stability, financial education and digital transformation. Officials in Paris also welcomed the Republic of Moldova’s acceptance into the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), with the next step being the country’s technical interconnection.

Another key topic was the role of the National Bank of Moldova in the European Union accession process and the active participation of NBM specialists in international thematic working groups.

"The National Bank of Moldova plays a crucial role in Moldova's EU accession process. The active participation of our specialists in the thematic working groups at the international level directly contributes to strengthening Moldova's image as a reliable partner and to promoting our strategic interests abroad," said Governor Anca Dragu.

During discussions with OECD representatives, the need to align the Republic of Moldova with best practices in terms of economic governance and public policies was mentioned, especially in the context of the reforms needed to meet European standards. At the same time, other key topics included the macroeconomic framework, the monetary policy pursued by the NBM and the need to improve access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises - a key factor for the sustainable development of the economy. Among the initiatives highlighted was the NBM's project "FinanciarELE - Women's Leadership Community", launched during Global Money Week, an initiative organized in 176 countries under the auspices of the OECD. This project reflects the National Bank's commitment to promoting gender equality and encouraging women's participation in the financial sector and is recognized as a best practice example among central banking institutions.

The visit to Paris is part of the Memorandum of Cooperation between the National Bank of Moldova and the Banque de France, signed this year by the two institutions. The document provides for the enhancement of experience exchange, professional training of employees, as well as technical support in key areas of the central bank's activity.