Ion ȘTEFANOVICI, from the FERM 2025 stage: “Without a national vision, the development of the Moldova Region risks remaining an isolated effort”

Vatra Dornei, July 9–13, 2025 | The Moldova Regional Economic Forum brings together, over four days, key actors from local and central public administration, the business environment, academia, NGOs, and international organizations to discuss the future of a region at a turning point.

The Moldova region needs strategic coherence, sustainable investments, and applied solutions in a context where social, economic, and demographic challenges are increasingly evident. The Forum in Vatra Dornei thus becomes a working platform, not just a debate venue, where clear development directions are analyzed and new partnerships, projects, and strategic documents are shaped.

The discussions cover major topics such as investment attraction, access to European funds, infrastructure and connectivity development, energy transition, modernization of healthcare and education systems, and the promotion of tourism and cultural potential.

The event stands out not only through its international dimension – bringing together delegations from the Republic of Moldova, Ukraine, the European Union, the Western Balkans, and Asia – but also through the firm commitment to transform the ideas discussed into concrete solutions and coherent public policies adapted to the specific needs of the region.

With extended participation – government officials, local leaders, investors, ambassadors, representatives from academia and civil society from Romania, the Republic of Moldova, Ukraine, and countries from the European Union, the Western Balkans, the Middle East, and Asia – the event fits into a strategic framework for regional dialogue.

At the heart of the discussions: investments, European funds, infrastructure, the green transition, healthcare, tourism, education, and a cross-cutting theme – the lack of a coherent national plan.

Ion Ștefanovici: “I can’t help but express my concern. What’s the national plan at this moment?”

The keynote statement of the first day came from Ion Ștefanovici, president of the Center for Regional Development Analysis and Planning (CAPDR), the organizer of the forum. With a direct but balanced tone, he highlighted the confusion at the central level and the discontinuity of economic policies, which have a direct impact on the regions. Ștefanovici called for a clear anchoring of regional policies within a well-defined national vision:

“I’m not hiding the fact that I’ve also prepared a file regarding economic statistics, which, of course – referring to the Romanian side – reflect the difficult situation our country is going through. Last year, from this very podium, I raised this issue – and I won’t go into too much detail, out of respect for my partners and considering the electoral situations last year and the poor treatment of the economy in terms of measures. But by studying the statistics, just like all of you, I can’t help but express my concern, sometimes even disappointment, because despite trying very hard, I still can’t understand – what is the national plan right now?”

“I wish we all understood it, because based on the national plan, we align our regional policies in various sectors. I’ve outlined all our concerns, which are multidisciplinary, but if I don’t have a point of reference or a common approach with the Romanian Government, then where do I stand?”

This question did not remain unanswered but became the central theme of most panel interventions throughout the forum.

Gheorghe Șoldan: “Real investments and infrastructure – the key to stopping the youth exodus from Moldova”

Gheorghe Șoldan, president of the Suceava County Council, addressed the challenges faced by local public administration in a complicated economic and political context, as well as the progress made in recent years.

Speaking to an audience of local government representatives, businesspeople, and public institution officials, Șoldan emphasized the importance of honest, data-driven communication, especially as negative perceptions can sometimes overshadow real progress.

“In these difficult times, with many uncertainties and frequent changes, it’s important to face reality and have the courage to speak both about what isn’t working and what has been achieved.”

Șoldan acknowledged how complicated the current economic context is, with recent fiscal measures generating concern among local communities and businesses. However, he insisted that maintaining a balance between highlighting challenges and recognizing achievements is essential.

“Even though we are going through difficult times, we cannot ignore the fact that last year was a record year for investments in Romania.”

Specifically, the President of Suceava County Council highlighted the role of infrastructure as a driver of regional development, mentioning recent achievements in highway construction, with a special focus on the A7 Highway, a vital project for Moldova’s connectivity.

“The A7 Highway is funded through both European and government sources. It’s a strategic project for our region, and the progress made in recent years is concrete and measurable.”

Moreover, Șoldan emphasized the impact of national programs such as Anghel Saligny and investments made through the National Investment Company, which helped reduce the gap between rural and urban areas.

“Through these programs, we managed to bring development and investment to rural communities, where the disparities were the greatest.”

A sensitive but essential topic was the exodus of young people from the region. Șoldan called for responsibility and concrete actions, stressing that the problem is not insurmountable.

“Young people leave because they lack proper conditions. However, through investments in infrastructure, education, and services, we have recently managed to stop this exodus in many communities.”

His speech was a call for continuity and joint mobilization, so that the Moldova region becomes an attractive space with real opportunities for economic and social development.

Mayor Marius Rîpan: “Vatra Dornei will remain a partner in development”

The Mayor of Vatra Dornei, Marius Rîpan, emphasized the importance of this gathering for promoting economic dialogue and establishing long-term partnerships in the region.

He highlighted that despite the challenges faced by local communities, the city he leads remains open to initiatives that can bring added value to the Moldova region.

“Although we are honored to regularly host important events, without a doubt, during these days, our municipality becomes the host of one of the most significant events of the year – the Moldova Regional Economic Forum 2025 – alongside the ‘Gust Moldova’ Fair.”

Rîpan noted that the event is not just a simple gathering but a strategic platform for constructive dialogue and collaboration between local government, the business environment, investors, and international experts.

“It represents a unique opportunity to promote economic dialogue, establish lasting partnerships, and discover the vast potential of our region.”

In his view, the municipality of Vatra Dornei plays an essential role in the area’s development, and the openness and support of local authorities are key factors for the success of any development initiative.

“It is an honor for our city to be the meeting point for so many economic leaders, investors, government representatives, and international experts. Vatra Dornei will remain, as always, an open and supportive partner of initiatives that bring development and prosperity to the entire region.”

Marius Rîpan also pointed out that the simultaneous organization of the ‘Gust Moldova’ Fair perfectly complements the forum’s objectives, showcasing the region’s agri-food and tourism potential, as well as its local producers.

“The Gust Moldova Fair supports the local economy and the region’s cultural heritage, contributing to tourism development and strengthening the connection between producers and consumers.”

Finally, the mayor reiterated the local administration’s commitment to sustainable development based on dialogue, collaboration, and the capitalization of regional resources.

“Vatra Dornei will continue to support all projects and initiatives that bring real benefits to the community and contribute to improving the quality of life in the Moldova Region.”

Viorica Dăncilă (former Prime Minister of Romania): “Our children and grandchildren will ask us: Romania was in a difficult situation, but what did you do?”

At the Moldova Regional Economic Forum 2025, Viorica Dăncilă, former Prime Minister of Romania, delivered a message of involvement, responsibility, and national solidarity, addressed to all those who, in one way or another, influence the future of the region and the country.

Her speech, devoid of any partisan tone, was a personal one, built around a central idea: the need for active involvement, civic engagement, and collective response to the difficult realities Romania is facing.

“As someone who led Romania between 2018–2019 and who swore on the Constitution and the Bible, I must come before you and explain, to tell you what the reality is at this moment.”

She firmly stated that she does not represent any party and does not come before the public as a politician, but as a concerned citizen focused on Romania’s present and future:

“I am not affiliated with any political party. I don’t want to refer to any person. But everything that is happening in Romania, everything happening with the destiny of Romanians, of our children and grandchildren, is a priority for me.”

The former Prime Minister resonated with the message of CAPDR President Ion Ștefanovici and reinforced the idea that there’s no more time for spectators – everyone must assume an active role in Romania’s transformation, regardless of their field or level of influence:

“As Mr. Ștefanovici said, I believe that all of us who want to shape a better future, all of us who want, Mr. President, those who left to return home, we cannot stand on the sidelines.”

This call to action marked the emotional peak of her speech, concluding with a direct and powerful reflection on the judgment that future generations will make if today’s leaders remain silent or passive:

“Because in the future, our children and grandchildren will ask: ‘Yes, Romania was in a difficult situation, but what did you do? Why did you stand aside? Why didn’t you get involved?’”

Through her message, Viorica Dăncilă brought to the forum a moral appeal to mobilization, reminding everyone that today’s decisions – or indecisions – will have direct consequences on tomorrow’s lives.

Her intervention went beyond the technical boundaries of regional development and brought back into focus the human factor – the one that makes the difference between stagnation and progress, between abandonment and construction.

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Strategic Objectives of FERM 2025 in the Long Term

The Forum targets a series of clear directions for the region:

• Attracting investments and stimulating the local economy

• Accessing European funds and diversifying financing sources

• Modernizing infrastructure and regional connectivity

• Sustainability and green transition

• Development of healthcare and education systems

• Promoting tourism and supporting youth

• Supporting the mountain economy and local producers

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A Strategic Document for Moldova and Eastern Europe

The forum’s results will be synthesized into a strategic document prepared by CAPDR, containing concrete proposals, endorsed by participants and aligned with institutional sources. This will serve as a working basis for local, national, and international public policies, contributing to project continuity and enhancing the capacity to absorb funds.

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Conclusion: The Future Is Built Through Involvement

The Regional Economic Forum Moldova 2025 is not just a debate platform but an exercise of collective responsibility. At a time when political, economic, and social fragmentation risks weakening regional development, the event in Vatra Dornei confirms that the future of the region can be built on dialogue, solidarity, and strategic action.