A lending agreement to the value of €15 million between the Government of Moldova and the European Union was signed by Prime Minister Pavel Filip and Commissioner for European Neighborhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations Johannes Hahn on September 26, IPN reports.

After the signing ceremony, the Premier said the visit by the European official represents recognition of the government’s efforts and shows the continuous commitment of the European partners. Pavel Filip added that the meeting with Johannes Hahn centered on the necessity of implementing the adopted reforms, the priorities for the immediate future in corruption fighting and other areas, investigation of the banking frauds, adoption of a new Broadcasting Code, and reformation of the financial-banking system. The Prime Minister noted that owing to the support provided by the EU, they will soon launch the public administration reform.

Commissioner Johannes Hahn said the public administration reform is first of all for the benefit of the people and the political class must be less involved in this. An electronic system for public procurement is to be created within the reform.

The official noted that the EU is waiting for the new program of the IMF for Moldova so as to unlock the financing for the country. The new program is also important for ensuring macroeconomic stability in Moldova.

As regards the Transnistrian conflict, Johannes Hahn reiterated that the EU is for identifying a solution by peaceful ways, by respecting the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the state.

Johannes Hahn is paying a one-day visit to Moldova on September 26. He is to also meet with Speaker of Parliament Andrian Candu.