Strengthening Moldova’s capacity to combat money laundering and terrorist financing is a critical pillar in the country’s European integration agenda. A strategic dialogue took place, bringing together national institutions and international partners to accelerate the alignment of Moldova’s anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CFT) framework with the European Union standards.

The event gathered representatives from the National Bank of Moldova (NBM) and the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), alongside international experts and partners, within the framework of the European Union – Council of Europe Partnership for Good Governance Program. The active engagement of the national stakeholders reflected a clear institutional commitment to accelerating reforms in line with the latest European AML/CFT standards, such as Directive (EU) 2024/1640 on the mechanisms to be put in place by Member States for the prevention of the use of the financial system for the purposes of money laundering or terrorist financing and Regulation (EU) 2024/1624 on the prevention of the use of the financial system for the purposes of money laundering or terrorist financing.

The initiative is embedded within Moldova’s broader reform efforts and is instrumental in achieving compliance with the EU acquis, reinforcing the country’s commitment to democratic governance, financial integrity, and the rule of law.

In this context, Falk Langue, Head of the Council of Europe Office in Chisinau, emphasised the relevance of these reforms, stating: “These reforms are a strategic path to resilience, prosperity, and European integration.” He acknowledged the Republic of Moldova’s dedication to implementing effective legislative and institutional changes in the AML/CFT area, supported by strong political will and cross-sector collaboration.

Throughout the sessions, participants analysed gaps in national legislation, institutional capacities, and operational practices. The discussions focused on enhancing inter-agency cooperation, strengthening supervisory tools, improving transparency of beneficial ownership, and implementing effective risk-based oversight mechanisms.

The workshop concluded with identifying actionable steps and priorities for continued reform. The involvement of NBM and FIU leadership in these discussions highlighted their dedication to aligning Moldova’s financial system with EU expectations and strengthening its resilience against economic crime.

This event is part of the European Union and the Council of Europe joint programme “Partnership for Good Governance”, co-funded by the European Union and the Council of Europe, and implemented by the Council of Europe, in the framework of the project on “Strengthening the Anti-Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Regime in the Republic of Moldova”.