The Governor of the National Bank of Moldova, Ms. Anca Dragu, participated as a speaker at the event "Stability, Security, and Prosperity in Southeast Europe," organised by the Hudson Institute in Washington D.C. The forum brought together political leaders and business representatives from the region, including Mr. Alexandru Nazare, Minister of Finance of Romania, and Mr. Jan Ruzicka, Chief External Affairs Officer at PPF Group.

In her speech, Governor Anca Dragu stressed that the Republic of Moldova is undergoing a period of historic transformation, serving as an example of courage and democratic resilience, and the recent parliamentary elections demonstrate that Moldova's European path is irreversible.

"Today we can say that Moldova is no longer a country on the margins of Europe, but a state that inspires through democratic maturity. That is why I am convinced: Moldova will become Europe’s wonder child."

The Governor of the NBM highlighted three major areas for accelerated development:

• Digital transformation and modern payment infrastructure, through the expansion of the MIA Instant Payments system and accession to the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) – a historic step that integrates Moldova operationally into the European financial space;
• Capital market development and access to external financing for Moldovan companies by connecting to European financial market infrastructures and harmonising regulations with EU standards;
• Promotion of green financing, financial education, and financial inclusion, areas through which the NBM contributes to the transition to a sustainable and inclusive economy.

"Those who do not invest in Moldova today will regret it in five years. Moldova offers macroeconomic stability, an independent central bank, and a regulatory framework compatible with the European one. The Republic of Moldova has excellent human resources, a culture of resilience, and a determination that makes it attractive for responsible investment," added the NBM Governor.

Ms. Anca Dragu reaffirmed that the NBM plays a key role in the process of accession to the European Union, coordinating technical preparations for chapters on the free movement of capital, financial services, and economic and monetary policy.

At the same time, the NBM Governor noted that Moldova is already an integral part of financial Europe, with its accession to SEPA, and that banking reforms, payment digitalisation, and modernisation of supervision contribute to attracting European capital and enhancing the competitiveness of the national economy.

The discussion at the Hudson Institute focused on the role of Southeast Europe in the transatlantic economic and security architecture. Governor Anca Dragu's participation in this event is part of the agenda of the Republic of Moldova’s delegation to the Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund, which are taking place in Washington.