The Republic of Moldova sees setbacks in the banking sector, with worrying signals coming from the National Bank of Moldova (BNM) and from foreign investors, stated Romania’s Ambassador to Moldova Daniel Ioniță.

"I believe that progress was made in the banking system, which had experienced very difficult times. We believed that if there's anything the Filip government will be remembered for, it will be the progress achieved in the banking sector, specifically the stabilization of the financial and banking situation of Moldova, which was severely affected by the famous case of the disappearance of the billion, or billions of dollars", said Daniel Ioniță during a talk show on TVR Moldova.

According to the Romanian diplomat, there are clear signals that the banking sector situation is getting worse. These signals are received from both BNM officials and foreign investors.

"These signals come to us from several sources. A source are some strategic investors who came and invested in good faith, believing in the invitation and official guarantees offered by Moldovan public authorities, believing in the noble mission of the authorities to restore the banking system, a system that is essential for the rule of law and for democracy. Now, there are some setbacks in this area. There are red flags coming from the National Bank of Moldova regarding the independent functioning of the institution", said Daniel Ioniță.

"After coming in good faith, some of these investors are now being persecuted. This message, unfortunately, spreads to other foreign investors as well. It's not the only signal of this kind that I have received lately. I do not find myself in a very comfortable position, because such issues will automatically alarm many chancelleries and foreign investment offices, who will reluctantly look at the opportunity or opportunities to invest in Moldova", concluded the Romanian ambassador.