A new program with the International Monetary Fund can be signed only after Parliament confirms the new administration of the National Bank of Moldova, Prime Minister Valeriu Strelet, who discussed with the IMF experts, said in a press briefing on September 24, IPN reports.

“According to the information I received as Prime Minister and from the discussions I had with the IMF Representative in Chisinau, the IMF mission that came to Moldova had the mandate to discuss, negotiate and sign a memorandum with Moldova and the country program on economic and financial policies. However, as a result of the resignation of the National Bank governor Dorin Dragutanu, this mandate was withdrawn,” stated Valeriu Strelet.

The Premier noted that in the current conditions, the mission will work based on two steps. The first step is to assess the current policies of the Government and the National Bank in areas that are vital for development, and the short and medium-term policies. The second step is related to the prospect of signing a memorandum after the administration of the central bank is confirmed by Parliament.

Valeriu Strelet reiterated Moldova’s interest in signing a memorandum on economic and financial policies with the IMF, noting this is essential for the country’s development, including through the angle of the relations with other development partners.

The IMF mission led by Ivanna Vladkova-Hollar is visiting Chisinau during on September 22 - October 6. The visit is made in preparation of the 2015 Article IV consultation, as well as to initiate discussions on policies that could form a basis for an IMF-supported program.