Concerning the protection of investments, 22 Bilateral Investment Treaties concluded between Moldova and 23[1] Member States are in force and cover investments by European Union (EU) citizens and companies.

The Association Agreement also includes provisions aimed at improving the business climate, for instance through cooperation on the protection of shareholders and creditors. The EU will continue to cooperate with Moldova in the framework of the Association Agreement. The EU also financially supports Moldova in developing and applying investor protection mechanisms.

Moldova indicated that it remained committed to the Association Agreement on the occasion of the Association Committee and the Association Committee in Trade configuration held in Chisinau on 18 and 19 October 2017. The EU recalled the need to reinforce the fight against corruption, ensure the independence of the judiciary, improve the business climate and strengthen democratic mechanisms.

The EU will continue to monitor specific cases and communicate with authorities from Moldova as appropriate in order to recall the commitments taken within the Association Agreement that is in force since 1 July 2016.

• [1] Belgium and Luxembourg have concluded a joint BIT with Moldova as ‘Union économique belgo-luxembourgeoise’.