Moldova can become a hub between the East and West – Minister of Economy

Moldova is seen by other countries as capable of becoming a regional hub between East and West, the Minister of Economy and Commerce, Valeriu Lazar assured. According to him, although it is discussed for a long time that Moldova is a bridge between Occident and Orient, this advantage is not turn to good account because of certain reasons generated from outside or inside the country. “The geopolitical situation is changing, but we still have this chance if undertaking some internal actions”, the minister said. Lazar assured that Moldova is that kind of place were multinational corporations settle their offices and not only to produce something here but also to administrate commercial inflows in the filed of goods and services. In order to make this plan come true, Moldova must be ready to offer proper conditions. First, “we need more liberalism, by changing mentality, especially at the central level”, Lazar said. According to him “we should not see in those who make investments in Moldova as a solution for some present personal problems”, “we must not be afraid” to offer foreign companies spaces and assets free of charge. The draft of the Investment Attracting and Exports Promoting Strategy for 2006-2015 launched on Monday, September 11 includes offering free estates and in order to facilitate settlement of headquarters, subsidiaries and representatives of international organizations and transnational corporations. This fact means using country’s present potential linked to favorable geographic location, participation at numerous international agreements and regional initiatives as well as linguistic advantages.