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2025 Annual Meeting of the Swiss-Romanian Cooperation Programme


Between 26 and 28 May 2025, the Ministry of Finance hosted the third annual meeting of the Swiss-Romanian Cooperation Programme, in close collaboration with the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), and the Swiss Contribution Office (SCO).

The meeting opened with technical sessions reviewing the 2024 implementation progress and 2025 developments, followed by thematic discussions with Programme Operators, Component Operators, and other institutions involved in the Programme. Key issues were addressed, including administrative bottlenecks, operational challenges, and practical solutions identified to accelerate implementation and enhance inter-institutional coordination.

Main conclusions of the meeting included:
• All 11 Programmes were formally approved in 2024, setting a clear strategic framework for cooperation;
• By May 2025, all Support Measure Agreements and the majority of Implementation Agreements had been signed, paving the way for the operational phase;
• The effective implementation stage has begun, with beneficiary contracting, procurement launches, and strengthened partnerships with Swiss institutions;
• Institutional changes, staffing limitations and procedural complexities have been effectively addressed through structured dialogue and technical assistance from the Swiss side;
• Good practices in monitoring, reporting, and public communication were highlighted, with an emphasis on measurable, transparent outcomes.

Given the eligibility deadline of 3 December 2029, both sides agreed on the need to maintain a fast pace of implementation, a clear strategic vision, and timely decision-making regarding all relevant procedures.

The Swiss-Romanian Cooperation Programme remains a model of responsible institutional partnership, delivering concrete results in essential areas of public policy: social inclusion, health, justice, education, research, public safety, and regional development.

The Ministry of Finance expresses its appreciation to all Programme and Component Operators for their sustained commitment and professionalism throughout every stage of this shared effort.