Moldovan Premier appears before U.S. Helsinki Commission

Prime Minister Vlad Filat appeared before the Helsinki Commission of the U.S. Congress in Washington on January 21. The Commission's chairman, Senator Benjamin Cardin said it was the first time that the Commission discussed issues concerning Moldova, Info-Prim Neo reports, quoting the Government's press service. “I know that last year was a hard year for Moldova as you had legislative elections two times and are to hold new elections. You also have to deal with a number of challenges like the modification of the Constitution and implementation of reforms, but we support you in your efforts,” the Senator said. Benjamin Cardin inquired about the observance of the human rights and freedoms in Moldova and the possible early elections. Filat told the Senator that the Government of Moldova aims to overcome the economic crisis and the constitutional crisis, more carefully administer the security sector and ensure the interethnic stability. Vlad Filat also met with officials of the German Marshall Fund (GMF) and the International Republican Institute (IRI). The discussions centered on the situation in Moldova and possibilities of supporting Moldova in making progress in implementing democratic reforms. GMF representative David J. Kramer said the Fund during the last two years has stepped up its activity in Moldova by launching projects aimed at strengthening democracy and building confidence between the two banks of the Nistru. IRI preident Lorne Carner said they will continue to support Moldova and will provide assistance in the electoral sector if early elections take place. The Moldovan Government's objectives to create a favorable business environment to attract investments, liberalize the economy and come closer to the EU were discussed at the meeting of Vlad Filat with Tom Carddick, the president of the Board of Directors of the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) and Board representatives responsible for the development of international business and the public sector. They said Moldova is a country with prospects. Vlad Filat, accompanied by a governmental delegation, is paying a working visit to the United States during January 19-23.