Chisinau, Moldova - Delegations from the United States and the Republic of Moldova met in Chisinau, Moldova for the fourth meeting of the United-States - Moldova Joint Commercial Commission to strengthen the bilateral trade and investment relationship. The U.S. delegation was led by Mr. L. Daniel Mullaney, Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle East, and the Moldovan delegation was led by Mr. Vadim Brinzan, Minister of Economy and Infrastructure.
Minister Brinzan and AUSTR Mullaney agreed that the regularity of these meetings during the last three years demonstrates the strength of the bilateral relationship and underlines the commitment from both sides to increase bilateral trade and improve Moldova's investment climate. The United States welcomed Moldova's commitment to resume accepting imports of animal origin products based on the U.S. Wholesome Certificate. The Moldovan side expressed its appreciation for the U.S. Government's presentation on opportunities to increase utilization of the Generalized System of Preferences. The government representatives also identified concrete steps forward to increase market access for American products.
The delegates discussed steps to prevent the introduction of regulatory barriers to trade in industrial and agricultural products, including through international notification of certain regulatory proposals for comment. They also reviewed the benefits derived from strong intellectual property rights protection and enforcement, which are essential elements for stimulating innovation and creativity and encouraging exports.
Turning to the business environment, the delegates discussed Moldova's priority reforms and plans to create an environment favorable to international investment. Both sides acknowledged the importance of transparency, predictability, and respect for the rule of law. The government of Moldova confirmed its interest in developing an investment screening mechanism and the importance of strengthening its cyber security posture, and welcomed U.S. assistance in this regard. As part of that discussion, the delegations highlighted the importance of transparent public procurement processes, both to the government and to bidding private sector stakeholders and exporters.
The government of Moldova described its plans to improve its economic diplomacy. Noting the existing trade and investments relations between the countries and its desire to grow those relations, the Moldovan side announced its intention to create an economic bureau in the United States.
To strengthen the bilateral partnership, the United States and Moldova will continue to engage in and promote bilateral dialogue to find concrete solutions to impediments to trade and investment as well as for strategies to enhance projects and investment.
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