Moldovan PM explains why he chose Claudiu Nasui for economy portfolio: “We need brave people, who do not shy away even from difficult problems”

Prime Minister Vasile Tofan has explained the reasons behind his decision to nominate Claudiu Nasui as candidate for the position of Economic Development and Digitalization Minister. The PM said that Moldova needs a leader who supports cutting public expenditure and making state‑owned companies more efficient.

The prime minister also said that the decision had entirely his and was taken in the context of the challenges currently facing the country.

“In fact, I understand that many people are wondering why I chose this option, and I will tell you very openly: the challenges we have are largely related to a rather heavy government sector, where we still need to reduce costs. And this is what Mr. Nasui believes in: in a smaller state, in lower budget spending, in lower taxes, in more efficient and fewer state‑owned companies. And we thought that, since we have these challenges, we should put at the helm a person who believes precisely in these things,” said Vasile Tofan at the show “Pe față” (Openly), broadcast at the public television station Moldova 1.

The prime minister recalled that Nasui had been economy minister and a member of parliament in Romania and believes that his experience can also help strengthen economic relations with Bucharest, given that approximately 30 per cent of Moldova’s exports go to the Romanian market.

“Claudiu Nasui was Minister of Economy in Romania, he was a member of parliament in Romania. I believe he will help us, including in strengthening our relationship with Romania, because 30 per cent of our exports go across the Prut. That is why, I think this is a very good decision,” Vasile Tofan added.

The prime minister specified that he had discussed this appointment with Romanian acting PM Ilie Bolojan and that the answer he received convinced him that the decision is the right one. He also stressed that Nasui would represent the interests of Moldova and would have the mission of maintaining a close relationship with Romania.

“Romania is our strategic partner and it will always remain so,” Vasile Tofan underlined.

Asked about criticism regarding the appointment of a minister from outside Moldova, Vasile Tofan said that, in this context, competence is more important, and he encouraged other professionals from the Diaspora to get involved in public administration.

“I believe we need brave, competent people who do not shy away even from difficult problems. And we have many difficult problems in Moldova. That is why, I am very happy that Mr. Nasui agreed to come. I encourage all Moldovans who want to work for the state to come. Unfortunately, when we announce certain competitions, people hardly apply for positions in ministries or as heads of agencies. And I will tell you very directly, it is very hard for us to find people. Because people do not want to work for the state,” said Vasile Tofan.

PM Vasile Tofan today announced two changes in the composition of the government: Eugeniu Osmochescu has been proposed for the position of Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry, and Claudiu Nasui - for the position of Minister of Economic Development and Digitalization, currently held by Osmochescu.