Moldova is interested in taking over the experience of Croatia in what concerns the implementation of the European Aquis, successfully using the European funds within the frameworks of the Neighbourhood policies, developing the road networks and other infrastructure projects. The Minister of Economy and Commerce, Igor Dodon made these statements at the Moldovan-Croatian Business Forum on December 15. According to the minister, previously, Croatia passed through the challenge of being a neighbour country of EU, and it is extremely important for Moldova to take over this experience. “Having good political relations is not enough, it is good to create the necessary ground for business so it could spur bilateral economic relations”, Dodon said. The representatives of 32 Croatian and 50 Moldovan companies came together at the Business Forum. The Forum aims at settling strong bilateral partnerships with the Croatian party, facilitating business contacts between the companies from Moldova and Croatia, and stimulating the creation of joint companies increasing the volume of trade. The Croatian Delegation is headed by the Minister of Labour Economy and Entrepreneurship, Branko Vukelic. The Croatian businessmen, who represent companies dealing with food industry, energy, banking sector, telecommunications and IT, expressed their interest in importing wine and food products, in infrastructure projects, and collaboration in tourism. The trade with Croatia totalled about USD 996.2 thousand during January-October 2006, diminishing by 46% compared to the same period of last year. The export of Moldovan companies to Croatia amounted to USD 153.1 thousand in the analyzed period, increasing by 3.8-fold compared with the same period of the last year. The imports from Croatia totalled USD 843.1 thousand or twice less compared with last year. The Forum is organised by the Ministry of Economy and Commerce together with the Organisation for Exports Promotion and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry.