The Moldovans working and living abroad have an extremely important role in the development of our country’s economy. This happens through investments they make in businesses in the country, remittances or other forms of investment. The role of the authorities is to facilitate these processes, but also to debureaucratize the system so that the interaction of the diaspora with the state takes place in a manner that saves time and money. The subject was discussed during the Diaspora Business Forum, held in Chisinau on Saturday.
Prime Minister Dorin Recean declared that what the Government is working on now is the creation of economic opportunities for citizens in the diaspora. Authorities have an obligation to improve services, including air transport, by encouraging the opening of more direct flights. Also, work is being done on the digitization of all public services. Dorin Recean invited the diaspora to contribute to the development of the Republic of Moldova wherever they are. Also, he conveyed the message that they are always welcome to return.
The Minister of Economy and Digitalization, Dumitru Alaiba, noted that the effects of the reform in several areas will be seen in a few years. He said that, in one way or another, the reforms are also intended for the diaspora. This includes the SRL reform, which offers maximum freedom in investments. According to the minister, efforts are being made to reduce bureaucracy. Things are improving, but there is a need to act much faster, “because business people cannot wait forever”.
According to Dumitru Alaiba, the reduction of bureaucracy alone saves approximately 0.2% of the annual GDP. The minister also said that last year about half a billion dollars were sent home, money that must encounter as few barriers and costs as possible.
Claudia Hermes, country director at the German International Cooperation Agency (GIZ) Moldova, noted that the organization helps the business community and civil society in implementing the necessary measures for the development of the economy, as well as direct investments. Diaspora entrepreneurs are a bridge that crosses continents, harnessing the potential for collaboration, innovation and entrepreneurship. In her opinion, the expertise and experience of the diaspora are important assets that can stimulate economic progress, but also create a long-lasting impact in Moldova.
The Diaspora Business Forum is an event that is part of the Diaspora Days, taking place on August 18 and 19 in Chisinau.
