The first edition of the Joint civil society dialogue forum

Civil society representatives, senior European and Moldovan officials participated in the first Joint civil society dialogue forum, dedicated to trade and sustainable development in the implementation of the EU-Moldova Free Trade Agreement (DCFTA), on 8 July.

The forum sought to identify common solutions aimed at proper application of the the DCFTA provisions on trade and sustainable development, so that it has a positive impact both on business and the environment, labor market etc.

At the event, the Deputy Minister, Octavian Calmac, mentioned the importance of a constructive dialogue with the civil society: "The Ministry of Economy relies on an efficient communication with the civil society to identify how the EU-Republic of Moldova Free Trade Agreement can bring extra value and benefits to the economic, social and environmental sector etc."

The civil society representatives from the EU and Moldova created two internal consultative groups at the Forum. They noted the importance of the Forum for civil society involvement in order to tackle the challenges in the implementation of the Association Agreement.

The two advisory groups signed a declaration stating a set of policy recommendations aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of local products, improving the business environment, social protection of employees, elimination of non-tariff trade barriers, improving education, protection environment, accelerating reforms etc.

The Joint civil society dialogue forum will be held annually. In July 2016, the Forum will be organized in the European Union and will be preceded, as in this year, by the EU-Republic of Moldova Association Sub-Committee on Trade and Sustainable Development.

The Ministry of Economy, together with the European Commission held at the Forum, a workshop which focused on DCFTA provisions and new reforms entailed in waste management and trade issues.

Source: www.mec.gov.md