On July 31, 2023, a meeting was held between the Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, and the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Agriculture & Food Industries of Moldova, Mr. Vladimir Bolea, at Krishi Bhawan in New Delhi.
The meeting aimed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in agriculture between India and Moldova, two countries that have enjoyed close and friendly diplomatic relations for 31 years. During the meeting, the two ministers discussed the potential for increasing bilateral trade in agricultural commodities and the exchange of knowledge and technology to enhance agricultural cooperation.
International Years of Millets (IYOM):
- The Indian Minister highlighted the declaration of the year 2023 as International Years of Millets (IYOM) by the United Nations.
- She emphasized the benefits of millets for health and the environment.
Potential for Increasing Bilateral Trade:
- Both ministers emphasized the potential for increasing bilateral trade in agricultural commodities between India and Moldova.
Cooperation in Exchange of Knowledge and Technology:
- The ministers discussed the importance of exchanging knowledge and technology to enhance agricultural cooperation.
- This would enable both countries to benefit from each other’s expertise in the field.
Proposal for Memorandum of Understanding (MoU):
- Mr. Vladimir Bolea proposed signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Moldova in the field of agriculture.
- The MoU would serve as an institutional mechanism for cooperation between the two countries.
Moldova’s Interest in Trade with India:
- Mr. Bolea expressed Moldova’s interest in exporting vegetable oils to India.
- He also mentioned Moldova’s intention to import fertilizers and pesticides from India.
Support for India’s Membership of UN Security Council:
- Moldova expressed its support for India’s membership of the UN Security Council in 2027, showcasing their friendly bilateral relations.
Moldovan Aspiration to Join EU:
- Mr. Bolea informed that Moldova is a candidate to become an EU member and follows EU standards for product safety and quality.
Export of Moldovan Wine and Apples:
- The Moldovan Minister highlighted the significance of wine and apple production in their culture and expressed interest in exporting these products to India.
Agreement on MoU and Technology Exchange:
- MoS Shobha Karandlaje agreed to the proposal of signing an MoU and mentioned that India will soon share a draft MoU with Moldova.
- She also requested Moldova to send a proposal for cooperation in exchange of technology.
Invitation to Visit Moldova:
- The Moldovan Minister extended an invitation to Sushri Shobha Karandlaje to visit Moldova, which would further strengthen bilateral ties and cooperation.
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