Moldova parliament approves new cabinet led by Vasile Tofan
Moldova’s parliament has approved a new cabinet led by Prime Minister-designate Vasile Tofan, following an intense nine-hour marathon debate. The incoming government secured the support of the parliamentary majority, while opposition parties either voted against or abstained.
The new administration's agenda centers on five primary pillars, with economic revitalization named as the top priority. Prime Minister Tofan emphasized that economic policy must drive investment, create sustainable jobs, and increase household incomes across the country.
Economic growth and public administration reform
The government aims to curb the fiscal deficit relative to GDP and establish a business-friendly environment. Key targets include raising the employment rate to at least 62% by 2029, up from the current 57%, and increasing the national minimum wage to €510 (approx. 10,000 MDL).
Public administration will undergo comprehensive functional audits to eliminate redundant roles and merge overlapping agencies. Additionally, territorial-administrative reforms will proceed as originally structured to ensure institutional stability.
Strategic investment in agriculture and EU integration
In agriculture, the executive plans to mobilize €357 million (approx. 7 billion MDL) in public and private investments by 2029. Funding will focus on modernizing processing facilities, expanding irrigation networks, and upgrading agricultural technology.
European integration remains the core foreign policy objective. The cabinet aims to officially open negotiations on all EU cluster chapters by the end of this year, targeting full readiness for EU accession by 2030.
Parliamentary debate and executive vision
During the legislative session, lawmakers questioned Tofan on his management strategy and anti-corruption measures. Tofan described his leadership style as a "player-coach," committed to maximizing the performance of his cabinet team.
Addressing public frustration over inflated executive salaries in state enterprises, Tofan pledged regulatory revisions and administrative accountability. He also confirmed plans to resume direct dialogue with the authorities in the Gagauz Autonomous Region to strengthen regional economic ties.
Next steps for cabinet installation
Following parliamentary approval, President Maia Sandu will formally sign the decree appointing the new government. The Prime Minister and cabinet ministers will then take the oath of office to officially begin their mandate.
The new cabinet maintains significant continuity from the outgoing administration, with targeted leadership changes at key ministries:
Finance: Victoria Belous
Health: Alexandru Gasnaș
Culture: Dan Suruceanu
Agriculture: Radu Musteață
Translation by Iurie Tataru
