Pro-European Businessman Vasile Tofan Nominated as Moldova’s Next Prime Minister
Moldovan President Maia Sandu on Saturday nominated businessman Vasile Tofan as the country’s next prime minister following the resignation of Alexandru Munteanu earlier this month.
Announcing the decision in a video message on social media, Sandu said Tofan’s top priority, if confirmed by parliament, would be to keep Moldova on its path toward European Union membership.
She said the incoming government should accelerate the country’s European integration, strengthen the resilience of state institutions and society, and revive the economy.
Parliamentary Approval Needed
Tofan now has two weeks to seek parliamentary approval. He must present his government’s programme along with a proposed cabinet before lawmakers vote on his nomination.
The 43-year-old businessman had previously been considered a frontrunner for the prime minister’s post before Munteanu was appointed last year.
Backed by Ruling Party
Igor Grosu, leader of President Sandu’s pro-European Action and Solidarity Party (PAS), announced on Friday that the party had chosen Tofan as its candidate.
Grosu said he and Tofan shared key priorities, including securing Moldova’s accession to the European Union, advancing institutional reforms and driving economic growth.
Business Background
A graduate of Harvard Business School, Tofan also holds a degree in public management from the Netherlands. He is a managing partner at Horizon Capital, a private equity firm focused on investments in Ukraine and Moldova.
He has also served as chairman of the board of Moldova’s Purcari winery.
Munteanu Quit After Less Than Eight Months
Tofan replaces Alexandru Munteanu, another businessman and former World Bank official, who stepped down on July 3 after less than eight months in office.
Munteanu said he could no longer carry out his mandate “according to my principles and convictions” amid differences with the ruling majority.
EU Membership Remains Key Goal
The leadership change comes as Moldova continues to pursue closer ties with the European Union. Last month, the EU officially launched the first round of accession negotiations with both Moldova and Ukraine, marking a significant step in the country’s long-term bid to join the bloc.
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