The Consul General of Romania in Chernivtsi, Irina-Loredana STĂNCULESCU, at FERM 2025: “The current socio-economic conditions require us to adopt well-calculated measures, phase our assumed objectives, and act with vision”
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Vatra Dornei, July 9–13, 2025 | Moldova Regional Economic Forum brought together, over four days, key players from local and central public administration, the business environment, academia, NGOs, and international organizations to discuss the future of a region at a crossroads.
At the opening of the Moldova Regional Economic Forum (MREF) 2025, Her Excellency Irina-Loredana Stănculescu, Consul General of Romania in Chernivtsi, emphasized the crucial role of cross-border cooperation and diplomatic engagement for shared prosperity.
Regional development as the engine of national prosperity
Irina-Loredana Stănculescu conveyed a message of appreciation for the motto of the Moldova Regional Economic Forum, “from regional development to national prosperity”, highlighting the firm commitment to position the Moldova Region as an active and competitive hub of economic development.
“I am honored to congratulate the organizers for promoting the values reflected in the event’s motto, which underlines the importance of regional development as a prerequisite for national prosperity. The objective assumed to transform the Moldova region into an effective pole of economic growth represents a highly relevant strategic initiative that deserves full support.”
The Romanian diplomatic representative in Chernivtsi also stressed the complexity of the topics addressed at the Forum, which reflect the multiple priorities of the region for sustainable development.
“The dialogue proposed in this edition puts at the forefront fundamental themes for integrated regional development, such as strategic investments, accessing European funds, foreign trade, infrastructure, tourism, health, culture, and regional identity.”
Organized under the aegis of the Center for Regional Development Analysis and Planning, MREF 2025 represents an essential professional platform for exchanging expertise, strengthening strategic partnerships, and launching investment projects with long-term impact.
Cross-border cooperation as a pillar of sustainable development
The Consul General of Romania in Chernivtsi highlighted the consistent support provided by the consular office for cross-border cooperation initiatives between Romania and Ukraine.
“The Romanian consular office in Chernivtsi, located in close proximity to the Romanian-Ukrainian border, has consistently supported priorities, projects, and cross-border partnerships for the benefit of citizens of both states, generating a significant impact on regional development.”
She also emphasized the necessity of sustained efforts, well-calibrated measures, and a phased strategy adapted to the current socio-economic context.
“To respond to present challenges, it is essential to approach the assumed objectives with a clear vision and rigorous phasing that reflects the socio-economic realities of the moment.”
As a successful example in cooperation and accessing European funds, the Romania-Ukraine Joint Program 2014-2020 was mentioned.
“The jointly operated Romania-Ukraine 2014-2020 program represented an efficient model, highlighting the importance of investments in the border area and opening new partnership and funding opportunities.”
Additionally, the increased interest of Ukrainian authorities in joint projects was highlighted, with special reference to the Romanian-Ukrainian master plan for infrastructure development, a strategic effort that will strengthen regional connectivity.
“The Ukrainian side has responded favorably to requests from Romanian counterpart institutions, and the Romanian-Ukrainian master plan for infrastructure development will demonstrate bilateral capacity for collaboration in connectivity and will strengthen cooperation between Ukrainian decision-makers and the European Union.”
Strategic perspectives for sustainable development and partnership strengthening
Her Excellency Irina-Loredana Stănculescu emphasized the need to create a predictable and favorable investment environment in the region, facilitating access to European and international funding.
“It is essential to develop a predictable and favorable investment environment that facilitates access to European and international funding, for the benefit of our region.”
She also underlined the importance of infrastructure development, both in transport and digital connectivity, as essential elements for regional economic growth.
“The development of transport infrastructure and digital connectivity are key elements that will stimulate trade exchanges and labor mobility.”
Moreover, economic and cultural diplomacy play an important role in facilitating dialogue and supporting cooperation among involved actors.
“The role of diplomacy is to facilitate political and professional dialogue, providing continuous support for regional integration and sustainable development of the Moldova Region.”
Through coordinated efforts and a common vision, the Moldova region can become a model of balanced and prosperous development, benefiting its citizens.
Conclusions: a call for constructive dialogue and future partnerships
In conclusion, the diplomatic representative emphasized the importance of establishing an open, transparent, and constructive dialogue among all entities involved in the development process of the Moldova Region. She stressed that only through close collaboration and exchange of expertise can durable solutions be identified and implemented, appropriate to the complexity of regional needs.
The need to establish a stable and predictable framework, favorable to the conclusion of efficient partnerships supporting both economic development and the social and infrastructural cohesion of the region, was underscored. Such concerted efforts are indispensable for addressing current challenges and capitalizing on the potential for regional growth and integration.
This perspective, centered on cooperation, reaffirms the firm commitment of diplomatic representatives and all involved actors to promoting sustainable prosperity for the Moldova Region through well-articulated strategies, solid partnerships, and continuous dialogue aimed at supporting future stages of collaboration.
