Mayor Marius RÎPAN at FERM 2025: “Vatra Dornei will remain, as always, an open partner and supporter of initiatives that bring development and prosperity to the entire region”
100 economic opportunities for the development of the Moldova Region on the A7 Highway route
Vatra Dornei, July 9–13, 2025 | Moldova Regional Economic Forum brought together, over four days, key players from local and central public administration, business environment, academia, NGOs, and international organizations to discuss the future of a region at a turning point.
The Moldova Region requires strategic coherence, sustainable investments, and practical solutions amid increasingly evident social, economic, and demographic challenges. The forum in Vatra Dornei thus becomes a working platform, not just a debate space, where clear development directions are analyzed and new partnerships, projects, and strategic documents are shaped.
The discussions covered major topics such as attracting investments, accessing European funds, infrastructure and connectivity development, energy transition, modernization of health and education systems, and leveraging tourism and cultural potential.
The event stood out not only for its international scope – bringing together delegations from the Republic of Moldova, Ukraine, the European Union, the Western Balkans, and Asia – but also for the firm commitment to transform the ideas discussed into concrete solutions and coherent public policies tailored to the region’s specifics.
With broad participation – government officials, local leaders, investors, ambassadors, representatives of academia and civil society from Romania, the Republic of Moldova, Ukraine, and countries from the European Union, Western Balkans, Middle East, and Asia – the event fits within a strategic framework of regional dialogue.
At the core of the discussions were investments, European funds, infrastructure, green transition, health, tourism, education, as well as a cross-cutting theme – the lack of a coherent national plan.
Mayor Marius Rîpan: “Vatra Dornei will remain a development partner”
The Mayor of Vatra Dornei Municipality, Marius Rîpan, emphasized the importance of this gathering for promoting economic dialogue and establishing sustainable partnerships in the region.
The Mayor highlighted that despite the challenges faced by local communities, the municipality he leads remains an open space for initiatives that can add value to the Moldova Region.
“Although we are honored to permanently host important events, undoubtedly, these days our municipality becomes the host of one of the most relevant events of the year – the Moldova Regional Economic Forum 2025 – alongside the Gust Moldova Fair.”
Rîpan pointed out that the event is not just a simple gathering but a strategic platform for constructive dialogue and collaboration among local administration, business environment, investors, and international experts.
“This represents a unique opportunity to promote economic dialogue, establish durable partnerships, and discover the vast potential of our region.”
In his opinion, 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 of so many economic leaders, investors, representatives of administration, and international experts. Vatra Dornei will remain, as always, an open partner and supporter of initiatives that bring development and prosperity throughout the region.”
Marius Rîpan also highlighted that the simultaneous organization of the Gust Moldova Fair perfectly complements the forum’s objectives, showcasing the agro-food and tourism potential of the region, as well as local producers.
“The Gust Moldova Fair is an event that supports the local economy and the cultural heritage of the region, contributing to tourism development and strengthening the links between producers and consumers.”
Finally, the mayor reiterated the local administration’s commitment to sustainable development based on dialogue, collaboration, and valorization 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.”
