Ion Ștefanovici, on NordNews Live: “The Municipality of Bălți Must Become a Regional Development Hub Through Cooperation, European Funds, and the Promotion of Local Products”

In yesterday’s edition, May 14, 2025, of the NordNews Live show, the special guest was Ion Ștefanovici, President of the Center for Regional Development Analysis and Planning, who highlighted the strategic development directions of the Municipality of Bălți and the opportunities arising from the Republic of Moldova’s rapprochement with the European Union.

Participation of the Municipality of Bălți in the Moldova Regional Economic Forum (FERM 2025)

One of the main topics of discussion was the active involvement of the Municipality of Bălți in the 2025 edition of the Moldova Regional Economic Forum (FERM). According to Ion Ștefanovici, this event is not just a dialogue platform but also a catalyst for investment and international partnerships.

“Bălți must strengthen its status as the economic and academic center of the northern region of the country. Our participation in FERM 2025 will enable the promotion of urban, industrial, and social development projects, as well as connections with strategic investors from Romania and the European area,” stated Ștefanovici.

Cooperation with Romania – a bridge to European funding

In the context of the Republic of Moldova’s European path, the President of the Center for Analysis and Planning emphasized the essential role of cross-border cooperation with Romania.

“Partnerships with local and regional administrations in Romania provide us access to best practice models and, most importantly, to European financing instruments. Bălți needs a capable team to develop viable projects and attract resources for infrastructure modernization, administrative digitalization, and support for local entrepreneurship.”

Promotion of local products – a priority for sustainable development

Ion Ștefanovici also spoke about the need to capitalize on the agri-food and artisanal potential of the region. “Local products from northern Moldova can become a regional brand with economic impact.

We must develop short supply chains, support small producers, and create sales markets abroad as well, through participation in international fairs and exhibitions.”

Public administration – the engine of European transformation

The discussion concluded with a reflection on the role of public administration in the process of bringing the Republic of Moldova closer to the European Union. “Without an efficient, results-oriented administration with a clear vision, the European path remains an abstract goal.

In Bălți, we need local leaders who understand the European dynamic and place the citizen at the center of governance,” emphasized the President of CAPDR.