International Policy Conference 2025: Strengthening Bridges in Policy Making

The event was inaugurated by Guido Beltrani, Director of the Swiss Cooperation Office in the Republic of Moldova, and Mariana Rufa, CEO of the European Business Association (EBA Moldova). Their opening remarks set the tone for constructive dialogue and collaboration across sectors.

In her keynote address, Doina Nistor, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Development and Digitization, highlighted Moldova’s EU integration journey, underlining the importance of shared vision and determination to move forward.

A central point of the agenda was the panel on EU Accession – Best EU Practices and Expertise, featuring Pavel Telicka (former Chief Negotiator of the Czech Republic’s EU accession, former Vice-President of the European Parliament, and former European Commissioner) and Gert Antsu (Estonia’s Special Envoy for the Eastern Partnership, Ministry of Foreign Affairs). Their insights on lessons learned and strategies for sustainable reforms provided valuable guidance for Moldova’s path toward EU membership.

Reflecting on the importance of bringing diverse actors together, Bojan Kolundzija, Helvetas Moldova Country Manager, noted:

“When governments, businesses, and civil society can come together around the same table, openly debate priorities, and find solutions, they create not only better policies but also mutual trust and a shared commitment to national development goals. These are the conditions under which reforms take root and endure.”

The conference continues over the coming days with sessions dedicated to key areas such as agricultural policies, the Green Deal, and strengthening social cohesion through dialogue between the public and private sectors and civil society.