---
title: "Valdis Dombrovskis in Chișinău: European integration benefits citizens and the economy"
url: https://radiomoldova.md/p/86324/valdis-dombrovskis-in-chisinau-european-integration-benefits-citizens-and-the-economy
published: 2026-10-01T15:29:00Z
language: en
author: "Olga Mînzat"
section: "EU accession"
source: radiomoldova.md
---

# Valdis Dombrovskis in Chișinău: European integration benefits citizens and the economy

> The Republic of Moldova’s European integration is not a process that will begin only after accession to the European Union, but rather one that is already yielding concrete results for citizens and the economy. This statement was made by Valdis Dombrovskis, the European Commissioner for Economy and Productivity, at the second edition of the International Conference on Policy Coordination for EU Convergence, held on October 1 in Chișinău.

![](https://storage.radiomoldova.md/images/a2d068cb-730f-4bdf-a2c4-e477126ba698.jpg)

The Republic of Moldova’s European integration is not a process that will begin only after accession to the European Union, but rather one that is already yielding concrete results for citizens and the economy. This statement was made by Valdis Dombrovskis, the European Commissioner for Economy and Productivity, at the second edition of the International Conference on Policy Coordination for EU Convergence, held on October 1 in Chișinău.

The European official described the Republic of Moldova as a strategic partner for Europe and emphasized that the country can contribute to the continent's security and competitiveness, including through the experience gained in countering hybrid threats and disinformation.

The Republic of Moldova has entered a new stage of its European integration journey following the opening of accession negotiations on the first cluster, according to European Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis. The official noted that European integration is not merely a political objective but is already transforming the country's economy and trade relations.

Valdis Dombrovskis cited integration into the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA)—which enables faster and cheaper euro transfers—as well as closer alignment with the European market in the energy and telecommunications sectors, as examples of this progress.

At the same time, he stressed that sustainable economic convergence depends on continuing reforms and maintaining macroeconomic stability, drawing attention to the budget deficit and rising public debt, which necessitate prudent management of state finances. "Let me remind you what the Republic of Moldova offers Europe: a robust partner in the region, a growing market for European companies and investments, and valuable practical experience in countering hybrid threats and disinformation. It is a partnership of mutual interest and benefit. We are in this together. The Republic of Moldova’s path toward the European Union is ambitious, requiring sustained effort and firm choices; yet, once the foundation is laid and the direction is clear—much like Moldovan wine—this work may take time to mature, but the reward is worth the wait," stated Valdis Dombrovskis.

Adhering to European standards yields tangible benefits, including more affordable financial services, noted Anca Dragu, Governor of the National Bank of Moldova (NBM). She highlighted the results of SEPA integration, noting that the cost of international transfers has dropped from about 20 euros to around one euro, resulting in savings of about 15 million euros over an 11-month period.

The Governor also addressed the expansion of the national MIA system, which enables instant payments between individuals, as well as to companies and public institutions, including business-to-business transactions. "Convergence is not limited to a single path; rather, it involves multiple trajectories marked by reforms and, often, crises. The benefits of meeting the standards are remarkable: enhanced credibility, deeper capital markets, and integration directly experienced by citizens through faster and cheaper payments via SEPA," noted Anca Dragu.

***

The 2nd Annual International Conference on Policy Coordination for EU Convergence is taking place over two days in Chișinău. The event is organized by the National Bank of Moldova (NBM) in partnership with the Bank of France and the National Bank of Romania.

More than 120 representatives from central banks, public authorities, international organizations, and the financial sector are participating in the proceedings.

Valdis Dombrovskis, the European Commissioner for Economy and Productivity, Implementation and Simplification, is paying his first working visit to the Republic of Moldova on October 1–2.

[Audio: https://trm.blob.core.windows.net/photos/d0510b79-39d3-47cf-a9ad-b04131027092.jpg](https://original.trm.md/video/definst/MP4:2026/10/1/222.m4a/playlist.m3u8)