Governor of NBM’s First Visit to the CBCG: SEPA and European Integration in Focus
24/06/2025
The CBCG Governor, Irena Radović, met today with the National Bank of Moldova’s Governor, Anka Dragu, who visited the CBCG.
The discussions focused on the exchange of experiences, regulatory practices and processes, and strengthening bilateral cooperation, with a special focus on adherence to the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), the development of the instant payment system and priorities in the European integration process.
They highlighted that modern challenges and accelerated changes in the global economic environment can be overcome only through decisive and consistent reforms, strategic vision and strong partnerships in the region and beyond. In this context, they outlined the importance of close cooperation between the two central banks in digitisation, improvement of payment systems and the availability of modern financial services, recognising both institutions’ achievements in developing instant payment systems.
They focused on the importance of the SEPA system for improving payment transactions and deeper integration into the European economic area and on the key role of central banks in preserving financial stability, confidence and institutional independence as the pillars of long-term development. The governors exchanged experiences regarding the modernisation of the financial sector and strengthening of institutional readiness, including the process of accession negotiations, jointly recognising the value of continuous exchange of knowledge – especially in areas where Montenegro progressed – which may be relevant for Moldova in the next stages of its European journey.
Governor Radović expressed satisfaction with Governor Dragu’s visit, stating that, although geographically distant, Moldova and Montenegro share similar strategic goals and values. She noted a great potential for deepening the cooperation between the two institutions in regulatory alignment, innovation and capacity building.
Governor Dragu thanked the CBCG for its hospitality and openness, stressing that Montenegro is a valuable example in the region and that the CBCG’s experiences can be valuable to Moldova in its integration efforts.
As a joint position, the governors highlighted a strong commitment to more intensive communication, implementation of joint initiatives and continuous exchange of knowledge and experience to strengthen the economies’ resilience and successful progress in the European integration process.