Foreign factor influences Moldova's economy more than political developments, ex-Deputy Premier

The Moldova economy recovers faster than the international financial institutions and even the Government projected. In 2010, Moldova was among the top countries in the region as regards the GDP growth (7% is the yearly growth expected, but the data for the last quarter have not been made public yet – e.n.), Doctor of Economy Alexandru Muravschi, former Deputy Prime Minister and former Minister of Economy, said in a news conference, quoted by Info-Prim Neo. “We should not exaggerate the role of the political factor. It is true that last year Moldova did not have a head of state, but we have had a functional Government and Parliament even if almost half of the lawmakers did not attend the sittings throughout the year. There are economic levers and instruments that the central bank and other state institutions can use. The economic growth in Moldova was the highest in the Commonwealth of Independent States,” said Alexandru Muravschi. The economist stated that the main economic changes in Moldova's economy are greatly determined by the foreign factor and the possibilities that appear. Among the tasks of the Government of Moldova are to continuously analyze the foreign market, devote greater attention to forecasting the economic developments in the partner countries and send correct signals to businesses. “The situation in Egypt and the possible impact on the oil prices may affect the economy of Moldova more than the political disagreements in the country,” said Alexandru Muravschi. However, the relations between those who are in power and in the Opposition are rather important, especially for establishing peace and stability, said the economist. “The Communists consider that what the administration does is wrong and assert that they know how to remedy the economic situation. Why didn't they do it during the eight years while in power then?” he asked. As to the relations between the Government ad the businesses, Alexandru Muravschi said there should be a normal dialogue between them. “Ten years ago, when the the income tax for legal entities was 31%, the entrepreneurs said the burden was heavy. Now this tax is zero, but they continue to say that the fiscal burden is heavy. There are certain views that are incorrect,” the ex-Deputy Premier said. Alexandru Muravschi expressed optimism about the economic developments this year. “We expect that the economic year 2011 will be better than the previous one if the weather conditions are favorable,” he stated.