Here is the rewritten article in markdown format:
International Cooperation Boosts Fight Against Financial Crime in Moldova
A new project aimed at enhancing the anti-money laundering and asset recovery regime in Moldova has been launched as part of a broader initiative to combat economic crime in Eastern Partnership countries.
Background
The European Union and Council of Europe’s Partnership for Good Governance (PGG) programme, which supports Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Republic of Moldova, and Ukraine, has implemented the project under its third phase. This is the first bi-lateral project against economic crime in Moldova to be implemented under PGG, building on previous technical assistance provided by the Council of Europe to support the country’s policy and legal frameworks.
Project Objectives
The new project responds to current needs and deficiencies identified by MONEYVAL and in the European Commission Opinion on Moldova’s application for EU membership. It will work in conjunction with the National Strategy and Action Plan for Preventing and Combating Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing 2020-2025, as well as the Council of Europe’s Action Plan for the Republic of Moldova 2021-2024.
Implementation
The initiative is designed to strengthen Moldovan institutions’ capacity to counter corruption and money laundering, aligning with regional efforts under PGG Phase I and II. The project will be implemented in close cooperation with relevant authorities, including the National Bureau for Combating Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing.
Quotes
“Combating financial crime requires a coordinated approach that brings together international partners, governments, and institutions,” said Evgeni EVGENIEV, Head of Unit at the Council of Europe’s Unit for Eastern and South-Eastern Europe. “This project represents a significant step forward in our efforts to support Moldova in this critical area.”
Contact Information
For more information about the project, please contact:
- Lucia HMELIC, Senior Project Officer, +373 22 888 898, Lucia.HMELIC@coe.int
- Council of Europe Office in Chisinau, +373 (0)22 202-304