The Governor of the National Bank of Moldova (NBM), Ms. Anca Dragu, and the Governor of the Banque de France, Mr. François Villeroy de Galhau, held a bilateral meeting in Chișinău, on the sidelines of the international conference "New Technology for Old Markets," organised by the NBM in partnership with the National Bank of Romania and the Banque de France.
Discussions focused on bilateral cooperation, support for reforms, and advancing the Republic of Moldova’s integration into the European financial architecture. The meeting highlighted the importance of the partnership between the NBM and the Banque de France, aimed at supporting the modernisation and innovation of the Republic of Moldova's financial system as part of the EU accession process.
"We are making constant efforts to position the Republic of Moldova as an active participant in the European financial innovation agenda, learning from the experience of other countries, but also sharing our local experience. The Republic of Moldova has real prospects of becoming a regional hub for ideas and solutions, capable of generating, exploring, and implementing original initiatives that support the modernisation of our financial system," emphasised Ms. Anca Dragu.
The Governor of the NBM added that the Republic of Moldova needs reliable partners on its European path, and France represents a model of excellence and a valuable benchmark for the modernisation and strengthening of the country's financial framework in line with European standards.
In this context, Mr. François Villeroy de Galhau emphasised that his presence in Chisinau sends a strong signal of support for the Republic of Moldova in its European integration process. The Governor of the Banque de France congratulated the Republic of Moldova on the launch of instant payments, its accession to the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), and the harmonisation of legislation with European standards.
His official visit to the Republic of Moldova, which took place on 19-20 September 2025, at the invitation of NBM Governor Anca Dragu, also included delivering a speech at the international conference "New Technology for Old Markets." Mr. Villeroy de Galhau's speech focused on the future of European monetary policy.
"In this era of profound technological change, central banks must remain anchors of trust and, at the same time, promoters of innovation. By working together, we can turn technological challenges into opportunities and build a more integrated, stable, and innovative financial future for Europe and Moldova. Moldova, like maestro Eugen Doga, who created a masterpiece that is part of UNESCO's heritage, is building its future on a solid cultural identity and modern infrastructure. France and the Banque de France will do everything possible to support you on this path," said the Governor of the Banque de France during his first visit to the Republic of Moldova.
Cooperation between the National Bank of Moldova and the Banque de France was strengthened by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the two institutions on 17 January 2025 in Paris. This document marks a significant moment in deepening bilateral relations and supporting the European path of the Republic of Moldova.
For the first time, the Republic of Moldova is hosting a major international conference dedicated to the future of finance in emerging markets. The event, entitled "New Technology for Old Markets," is organized by the National Bank of Moldova (BNM), in partnership with the National Bank of Romania and the Bank of France, and is taking place in Chisinau in a hybrid format (physical and online participation).