Prime Minister Pavel Filip participated today at the launch of High Value Agriculture in Moldova project, funded by the US Agency for International Development (USAID), in the amount of $21 million.

On this occasion, prime minister reiterated the importance of agricultural sector for Moldovan economy, given that it ensures food security of Moldova and is a traditional branch, employing a large part of the population. Head of Executive showed confidence that Moldova would return on the European map as a country with a well – developed agro industrial sector.

"Once we have the Free Trade Agreement with the European Union we must be competitive in this market, but also on domestic one, to provide quality products to our citizens. We can make investments to implement new technologies, so that those working in agro industrial business sector to be sure that their efforts will have effect," said Pavel Filip.

Attending the event, US Ambassador to Moldova, James Pettit, noted that Moldovan exports to EU market are rising, and the new project would help farmers to comply with European standards. "Farmers need to increase the quality of products, adopt new varieties, to ensure stable supplies and food safety. Additional export potential will be assessed for new agricultural products with high added value, such as berries and honey," James Pettit said.

In the context, prime minister reiterated Moldova's gratitude for constant support that was provided to Moldova by foreign partners, including the US. During 25 years, the United States provided assistance worth over $1.4 billion to Moldova. Last year only, this aid amounted to about $45 million.

High Value Agriculture in Moldova project has a duration of 5 years and among its priorities include assisting farmers in marketing and export of agricultural products with high added value, adoption of advanced technologies for production and post-harvesting, but also improve the quality of service of farmers' associations to their members.