The Republic of Moldova and the Republic of Malta have signed a memorandum of cooperation in the area of electronic governance. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Natalia Gherman, who signed the document on behalf of Moldova, said the country can learn a lot from Malta in this field. The two states also intend to cooperate in tourism and SME development, IPN reports.

Natalia Gherman said that during her visit to Malta this April, there was signed a joint statement on Moldova’s European course. Malta committed itself then to exchange information with a number of Moldovan institutions and honored its commitment.

The minister added that the memorandum represents a long-term commitment by Malta to help Moldova implement electronic governance by providing assistance to Moldovan functionaries. Moldova also wants to cooperate with Malta in the education sector as the universities of this country are very popular at European level.

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Malta George W. Vella said that after he took up his duties, he became very interested in the Eastern Partnership and is now hopeful that this initiative will be a success. He praised the Moldovan authorities for the progress made in doing democratic changes.

George W. Vella also said that Malta, being the smallest state in the EU, cannot provide financial assistance and cannot influence things a lot, but it will help Moldova in the areas in which it is able to. He noted that the Moldovans’ determination to become part of the EU is felt and voiced hope that Moldova will file the application for accession at the Riga EaP Summit next year.