The Republic of Moldova Needs Stronger Institutions and Joint Projects with Romania to Maximize Its European Path

Strengthening public institutions, investing in human capital, and developing strategic joint projects are considered essential conditions for the Republic of Moldova’s European integration and economic development

These conclusions emerged during the conference “Romania and the Republic of Moldova Between Shared Memory and European Destiny,” which brought together academics, experts, and officials from both countries.

As the Republic of Moldova accelerates its accession process to the European Union, experts believe the country must move beyond symbolic solidarity and historical ties toward a new phase centered on investment, institutional reforms, and practical development projects with Romania.

Strong Institutions – The Foundation of Economic Development

One of the conference’s main themes was the need to strengthen state institutions, regarded as a prerequisite for both successful reforms and the attraction of investment while enhancing the competitiveness of Moldova’s economy.

Mariana Iațco, Associate Professor at the State University of Moldova, emphasized that one of the country’s greatest challenges remains the shortage of qualified professionals and the continued migration of skilled human capital.

According to her, the departure of specialists weakens the public administration’s ability to implement effective policies and slows the modernization of state institutions.

In her view, European integration cannot rely solely on legislative alignment. It also requires credible, efficient institutions built on meritocracy and sound governance, capable of providing stability and predictability for the business environment.

For investors, institutional strength remains one of the key indicators of a country’s attractiveness, while Moldova needs an efficient public administration to fully capitalize on the financial opportunities offered by the European Union.

From Historical Symbols to Joint Economic Projects

Another key conclusion of the discussions concerned the evolution of relations between Romania and the Republic of Moldova.

Raluca Moldovan, Associate Professor at Babeș-Bolyai University in Cluj-Napoca, stressed that the country’s progress toward the European Union opens a new chapter in bilateral cooperation.

While previous decades focused primarily on shared identity, historical memory, and cultural ties, the coming years should be defined by concrete projects in strategic sectors.

Energy, transport infrastructure, digitalization, economic development, and institutional connectivity were identified as priority areas where Romania and Moldova can develop partnerships with tangible regional impact.

The statement that “the Flower Bridges have fulfilled their historical mission, but the new stage requires energy and institutional bridges” summarizes the paradigm shift highlighted during the conference—from symbolic rapprochement to functional integration.

Romania – The Republic of Moldova’s Main Strategic Partner

Conference participants also highlighted Romania’s consistent support for the Republic of Moldova through infrastructure projects, energy interconnections, and continuous backing of Chișinău’s European aspirations.

Tana Foarfă, Executive Director of Europuls, praised Romania’s long-standing assistance while noting that bilateral cooperation still has significant potential to deliver more visible economic and institutional results.

As Moldova advances toward European Union membership, the bilateral relationship can become a model of regional cooperation based on investment, expertise transfer, and joint development projects benefiting the wider region.

European Integration Must Be Backed by Investment and Human Capital

For the Republic of Moldova, European integration extends far beyond the political dimension and requires profound structural transformation.

Public administration reform, investment in human capital, reducing the brain drain, and creating an investment-friendly climate will determine the pace at which the country converges with European standards.

At the same time, deeper economic cooperation with Romania can accelerate Moldova’s integration into the EU Single Market while creating new opportunities for investment, infrastructure development, and improved business competitiveness.

A New Stage in the Romania–Moldova Partnership

The conference “Romania and the Republic of Moldova Between Shared Memory and European Destiny” reaffirmed that relations between the two countries are entering a stage where historical symbolism must be complemented by concrete achievements.

For the Republic of Moldova, stronger institutions, investment in people, and the implementation of joint projects with Romania represent not only milestones on the European path but also essential prerequisites for building a modern, resilient, and competitive economy within the European Union.