Chisinau, Moldova – Delegates from the United States and the Republic of Moldova met today in Chisinau under the auspices of the United States-Moldova Joint Commercial Commission (JCC). Deputy Minister of Economy and Infrastructure of the Republic of Moldova Vitalie Iurcu and Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle East L. Daniel Mullaney released the following joint statement after co-hosting this second meeting of the JCC:
“Reflecting our recently enhanced bilateral dialogue, the second meeting of the United States - Moldova Joint Commercial Commission facilitated our countries’ exchange of ideas and identified practical steps to deepen our bilateral trade and investment relationship. Both sides agreed that Moldova must continue to take important steps to reform its economy and strengthen its business and investment environment.
We discussed ways to increase bilateral trade cooperation. In particular, we reviewed Moldova’s implementation of its Association Agreement with the European Union, consistent with its World Trade Organization obligations, as well as agricultural and industrial goods trade.
Further, we discussed Moldova’s government and regulatory reforms. Both delegations agreed that Moldova must continue, and accelerate when possible, its reform path to improve its business environment and to ensure the development of a regulatory regime consistent with the country’s international obligations.
Regarding Moldova’s business environment, the delegations reviewed Moldova’s efforts to improve the protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights (IPR). We recognize the importance of adequate IPR protection not only to stimulate and protect innovation, but also as a broad indicator of Moldova’s respect for the rule of law. The importance of trust in the judicial sector is vital to a strong business environment.
The United States and the Republic of Moldova look forward to the continuation of the JCC to enhance bilateral trade and investment opportunities.”
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