The Republic of Moldova and Romania announced today the signing of a trilateral Memorandum of Understanding between the two governments and Microsoft in Chisinau. The cooperation is aimed to advance and speed up digital transformation projects in both countries.

The document formalizes the plans for Moldova and Romania to create and implement a common digital space allowing the exchange of knowledge, technologies and technical expertise. Microsoft will support the efforts of both governments, while helping upgrade their relevant technical capabilities and improve operational efficiency in the public and private sectors. As specified in the plan, all parties will work together to develop the national Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sectors of Moldova and Romania, build digital infrastructure, accelerate e-government services, develop cloud-first legislative policies and enhance digital skills.

At the signing ceremony, Iurie Turcanu, Deputy Prime Minister for Digitalization of the Republic of Moldova, said: “Trilateral cooperation opens extraordinary perspectives and opportunities for the digital development of the Republic of Moldova and Romania, being a catalyst of our common digital agenda and a key element of sustainability, which also includes the training of high-quality specialists in Moldovan institutions”.

Sebastian Ioan Burduja, Romanian Minister of Research, Innovation and Digitalization, pointed out: “Today's event marks one of my main priorities since taking office, creation of a common digital space between Romania and the Republic of Moldova. We often wish to have asphalt and concrete highways and bridges over the Prut River. However, digital bridges, which will bring the economy of the future, with all its opportunities, on both sides of the Prut River, are equally important. Microsoft is one of the peaks of the world software industry and I am happy to find openness and involvement in such cooperation. As proved many times, the partnership with the private sector is a priority for the activity of my Ministry”.

Commenting on this occasion, Michelle Simmons, General Manager of Microsoft CEE Multi-Country region, said: “Our team is committed to working closely with our government partners to benefit the communities in which we serve and live. The long-term transformation that creates an inclusive, fair and sustainable future for everyone requires a systemic change – and we are delighted to work with the government, businesses and people of Moldova to help make it happen.”

Bogdan Putinica, General Manager, Microsoft Romania, added: “Successful partnerships are based on transparency, trust and a common agenda for mutual benefit. As a proud partner of Romania, we are honoured to contribute to the digital development of the country. By developing a common digital space for sharing technology, skills and ideas, we will ensure that Romania is able to harness the economic and societal benefits deriving from resilient and secure digital infrastructures and systems.”