The National Bank of Moldova reported that Governor Anca Dragu met Japan’s Ambassador to Moldova, Yamada Yoichiro, to discuss strengthening bilateral relations, Moldova’s macroeconomic situation, and the central bank’s role in supporting the country’s European Union accession through a stable, secure financial system aligned with European standards. Dragu reiterated the central bank’s focus on improving the effectiveness of monetary policy, maintaining price stability, and supporting sustainable economic growth. The dialogue also covered progress and challenges in harmonising Moldova’s financial-sector legislation with EU requirements and highlighted Moldova’s acceptance into the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) as a major step in European financial integration. The release noted that Moldova–Japan cooperation is anchored in a strategic partnership encompassing 40 bilateral agreements and six projects under negotiation, including the Japan International Cooperation Agency-backed “Development Policy for Economic Recovery” programme launched in July 2023.