World Bank country manager hopes Moldova will become most attractive for investors in 4 years

The World Bank (WB) country manager in Moldova hopes Moldova will become one of the most attractive countries for investors, in four years. Melanie Marlett stated at a news conference on Thursday: “I hope the number of the poor will essentially decrease in Moldova till then.” She presented the Partnership Strategy of the WB with Moldova from 2009 to 2012, Info-Prim Neo reports. Marlett says the new strategy pursues to set the basis for participative economic growth, by improving economic competition, minimizing social and environment risks, developing human capital and promoting social inclusion and better governance in the public sector. “These objectives harmonize with the priorities stipulated in the National Development Strategy of Moldova. The country has the human potential and the resources to create business opportunities and enhance the life standard,” Melanie Marlett said. The WB has earmarked $200 million for the coming 4 years, by 45-50 million per year. A part of the money will be poured directly into the state budget. More money will be allotted to running projects: Power Project II, Social Investment Fund Project, Improving Competition Project. The WB will also invest in modernizing infrastructure, in improving the access to public services, in enhancing the energy efficiency, in environment projects , said the country manager. The finances will be allotted in AIDA conditions, for a 40-year term with a grace period of 10 years and a symbolical interest. Melanie Marlett has showed satisfaction with the WB projects running in Moldova, mentioning that the last partnership strategy was marked with an A. Natalia Catrinescu, an official from the Moldovan Government, has said the Government kept consulting with the WB while drafting the strategy.