Moldova plans to join the EU AI Factory Antenna initiative
This was announced by the Minister of Economic Development and Digitalization Doina Nistor at a joint briefing with the Executive Vice-President of the European Commission Henna Virkkunen. According to her, together with colleagues from the European Commission, a working group was initiated to negotiate on this issue in order to make resources for artificial intelligence (AI) closer to Moldova. According to Doina Nistor, it is planned to create a small hub that will allow connecting to regional AI factories. This will provide access to resources that allow the implementation of AI solutions for start-ups, university students and research in this area. "The fact that Moldova will be included in the AI ecosystem that is currently developing in the EU will allow us to develop in this area," Doina Nistor said, emphasizing that digital integration is the fastest and most tangible way to truly become part of Europe. During the press conference, the Minister presented important achievements that accelerate Moldova’s integration into the European digital space. Among the most important achievements is the country’s inclusion in the EU’s Roam Like at Home programme, as well as the mutual recognition of electronic signatures – measures that will bring direct and immediate benefits to citizens and the business environment. Thus, starting from January 1, 2026, Moldovan citizens will be able to use mobile services in EU countries at the same rates as at home, without additional roaming costs. “This historic agreement, the result of over 18 months of negotiations and legislative reform, is a concrete step towards removing barriers and closer integration of Moldovans into the European space. Another important achievement was the development of the recognition process for electronic signatures. “After Moldova was included in the list of trusted European certification service providers in July this year, any contract signed in the country with a digital signature will have full legal force in the European Union. This measure will significantly simplify cross-border trade, investment and cooperation for more than 300 thousand people actively using electronic signatures,” said Doina Nistor. She also announced that discussions have begun on the creation of a center of excellence in artificial intelligence – Antenna AI, connected to the European network, which will stimulate innovation in key sectors such as agriculture and medicine, and announced the launch of a grant competition for tech startups and digital innovations from July 16. Henna Virkkunen, in turn, welcomed the country's progress and confirmed the EU's support. “The roaming agreement and the recognition of the electronic signature are important milestones that bring concrete benefits to citizens and the business environment, strengthening the country's European path. “The EU remains a reliable partner committed to supporting Moldova’s security and digital resilience,” Henna Virkkunen stressed.// 15.07.2025 – InfoMarket.
