Romanian and Moldovan Agriculture Ministers Discuss Strengthening Cooperation and EU Alignment

The Romanian Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Florin Barbu, held an official meeting with his counterpart from the Republic of Moldova, Ludmila Catlabuga, Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry.

The discussions took place at the headquarters of the Romanian Ministry, in the presence of H.E. Victor Chirilă, Ambassador of the Republic of Moldova to Bucharest, and Diana Coșalîc, Director of the Agency for Intervention and Payments for Agriculture.

The meeting reaffirmed the close and dynamic relationship between the two countries, built on strong historical, cultural, and linguistic ties, as well as a continuous and pragmatic dialogue in key sectors such as agriculture, rural development, and the food industry. Minister Florin Barbu reiterated Romania’s firm support for the European path of the Republic of Moldova and emphasized the importance of deepened technical and institutional cooperation.

“Romania remains a reliable partner for the Republic of Moldova, especially during this crucial stage of aligning with European standards. The exchange of best practices and expertise is essential for the development of a modern and sustainable agriculture on both sides of the Prut River,” stated Minister Florin Barbu.

In the context of global challenges affecting the sector — such as climate change, market volatility, and food security — the two ministers agreed on concrete measures to strengthen agricultural resilience and promote rural development.

Romania expressed its readiness to provide technical assistance in the process of legislative harmonization and implementation of EU agricultural policies. Minister Ludmila Catlabuga expressed appreciation for Romania’s consistent support, particularly through the Agency for Payments and Intervention in Agriculture, which has served as a model for the counterpart institution in Chișinău.

Both parties agreed to continue collaborating on the development of a modern IT system for managing direct payments, which will be essential as the Republic of Moldova advances towards EU accession.

Other key topics discussed included investment in farms, expansion of irrigation systems, and the fight against African swine fever — all areas in which bilateral cooperation can bring real benefits to farmers and producers.

Participants in the meeting included:

• Daniela Rebega, Director General, Directorate-General for Rural Development
• Maria Toma, Director General, Directorate-General for Agricultural Policies
• Roxana Zarma, Director General, Directorate-General for European Affairs and International Relations
• Director General of the Directorate-General for the Food Industry and Trade
• Tinel Gheorghe, Director General, Agency for Payments and Intervention in Agriculture