Moldova commissions investment expert Tofan to form government

Economic profile of the designate

The government formation takes place against the backdrop of the political majority situation in the Moldovan parliament. The Action and Solidarity Party (PAS), led by PAS chief Igor Grosu, is the largest faction and thus forms the core of the future coalition. Tofan will now hold talks with potential coalition partners in order to present a cabinet that is to advance the reforms necessary for the EU accession process.

At the center of the incoming government's work, according to the designate, is meeting the criteria for EU accession by 2028. These include reforms in the areas of justice, public administration, and anti-corruption. Moldova, together with Ukraine, was granted EU candidate status in 2022 and has since been undergoing a comprehensive transformation process.

EU accession as the core task

Observers see the appointment of an economic manager with international training as a deliberate decision by Sandu to conduct the negotiations with Brussels on a professional level. Tofan's profile as an investment expert is thus intended to strengthen the confidence of international donors and EU institutions in the country's reform capacity.

The coming weeks will show with which partners Tofan can organize a viable majority in parliament. If the government formation proceeds successfully, the new cabinet would have to be confirmed by parliament before it can take up its duties. Until then, the previous transitional government will continue to conduct official business.

Outlook on the government formation

Tofan's appointment is also linked to the expectation that the economic convergence with EU standards will be accelerated. Investments in infrastructure, energy independence, and digitalization are considered central areas in which Moldova must demonstrate progress in order to successfully conduct the accession negotiations.

The president had held several consultations with parliamentary factions and civil society actors in recent weeks before deciding on Tofan. The appointment also sends a signal to the population that the country's pro-European orientation is to have continuity beyond the next legislative period.