Codrin Scutaru

👏Another productive meeting in Brussels, focusing on strengthening regional #defence cooperation and exploring ways to boost participation in the European Defence Fund (#EDF). Great discussions on how we can work together to bolster security across Europe! 🤝🇪🇺 #EUDefence #RegionalCooperation #Defence #Security

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Kick-off Meeting of the SME Resilience Alliance. The Ukraine Recovery Conference URC2024, held in Berlin in June, was a significant international event aimed at supporting the country's reconstruction and recovery. During the conference, we emphasized the importance of ensuring continuity in the agreements reached. Today, I want to affirm that we continue to maintain this focus. The main goal of the conference was to mobilize international support for Ukraine, particularly to achieve effective, swift, and predictable results for the country. At URC2024, a total of 110 international agreements were signed, amounting to over €16 billion. These included guarantee and grant agreements totaling €1.4 billion under the Ukraine Facility, risk insurance agreements exceeding $350 million, humanitarian demining funding, energy support packages, and large agreements with European business partners in various sectors with a focus on infrastructure recovery, green energy development, and digitalization. A notable milestone was the establishment of the SME Resilience Alliance by Ukraine, Germany, and 11 other countries, along with 17 IFIs/DFIs, with new funding commitments totaling approximately €4.9 billion over 4 years. The Ministry of Economy of Ukraine and the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development of Germany are co-chairs of the Alliance. Special thanks to GIZ-Ukraine and the German Embassy in Kyiv for their assistance in administering the Alliance's Secretariat. The Alliance's work will focus on supporting the implementation of the SME Recovery Strategy 2024-2027 and coordinating with international partners to mobilize existing and new resources to strengthen the SME ecosystem in Ukraine, address urgent issues, and meet the targeted needs of SMEs. At the Alliance’s first meeting this week, which brought together over 70 participants, a comprehensive coordination mechanism for supporting Ukrainian businesses was presented. What’s Next? Over the next two months, we, together with our partners, will analyze current and planned donor programs, as well as those of international financial institutions (IFIs), and development financial institutions (DFIs) in relation to strategic goals for supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The business community will be able to hear about interim results of this work at the beginning of September during an event hosted by the Ministry of Economy, which we are planning to coincide with Entrepreneur Day in Ukraine. The second meeting of the Alliance is scheduled for the end of September. In October and November, thematic meetings will be held to focus on avoiding duplication among donors and addressing specific issues related to supporting the private sector. The Alliance is open to new participants from international organizations. To join, please send an email to the Alliance Secretariat at [email protected].

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🔹The EU_Council adopted the general EU positions, incl. negotiating frameworks, for accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova. 🔵This opens the way for launching the negotiations on Tuesday 25 June in Luxembourg: · 15:30 - IGC with Ukraine · 18:00 - IGC with Moldova

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🚀 Public Affairs Consulting in Romania: Driving Strategic Change and Advocacy 🇷🇴 In today’s dynamic business environment, navigating the intricate landscape of public policy and regulation is crucial for success. This is where Public Affairs Consulting steps in, offering invaluable insights and strategic advice to businesses aiming to influence policy, manage reputational risks, and achieve sustainable growth. Why is Public Affairs Consulting essential in Romania? 1. Regulatory Navigation: Understanding and complying with the ever-evolving regulatory frameworks. 2. Stakeholder Engagement: Building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders. 3. Advocacy and Lobbying: Effectively advocating for policies that benefit the business environment. 4. Crisis Management: Preparing for and mitigating potential reputational risks. At Public Affairs Solutions, we pride ourselves on delivering tailored strategies that align with your business goals and the unique challenges of the Romanian market. Our expert team is dedicated to helping you influence policy, safeguard your interests, and create a positive impact. 👉 Let’s connect and explore how we can drive your business forward through strategic public affairs consulting. Reach out to us today! https://lnkd.in/dyzv43za #PublicAffairs #Consulting #Romania #PolicyInfluence #StrategicAdvocacy #StakeholderEngagement #RegulatoryCompliance #CrisisManagement #BusinessGrowth #PublicPolicy Photo: Forbes Romania

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Really interesting presentation and discussion of recommendations for the digitalisation of the Latvian State Employment Agency. This is part of DG REFORM's #TSI project on “Modernizing digital systems of the Latvian Public Employment Service”, implemented with #OECD expertise. Some of the key recommendations refer to: -       Developing a dedicated digitalisation strategy -       Finetuning the IT system to improve system and data security -       Modernizing the analytics system and the automation of data -       Improving the design and implementation of jobseeker profiling tool Excellent work and collaboration involving DG REFORM, OECD, and the Latvian Ministry of Welfare and State Employment Agency! More details here: https://lnkd.in/esku588h. #technical_support #reforms #EuropeanCommission #EUReformSupport #employment #employmentservices Raluca Painter Alessandra Flora Theodora Xenogiani Eva Lapsiņa Ilze Zvidrina Anne Lauringson

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📢 3rd STAKEHOLDER MEETING IN SLOVENIA - Advancing Microfinancing for Vulnerable Groups and Social Enterprises ✅ Yesterday, we met with representatives from the Social Economy Sector within the Ministry of Economy, Tourism, and Sport. This meeting was part of the Interreg Europe project Microfuture, which focuses on services and support in the field of microfinancing, particularly for vulnerable target groups and social enterprises. 🌍During this meeting, we presented eight best practices from France, Italy, Romania, and Sweden that address challenges in obtaining microcredits. These best practices are accessible on the project website: Microfuture Good Practices. ✅ The project aims to raise awareness and promote collaboration among key stakeholders (social enterprises, financial institutions, policymakers, and vulnerable target groups) to improve access to various micro-financial mechanisms. Some of these best practices have the potential to be transferred to Slovenia, making them of interest to the Ministry. To facilitate this, we will gather additional information directly from the practitioners of these best practices. ❗ For more information about the project, visit: https://lnkd.in/dNUm2BJ8 #InterregEurope #microfuture

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To ensure new digital migration tools are fit for purpose, government actors should evaluate how their timeliness and enforced waiting impacts the people using these tools. My analysis offers 10 criteria to guide policymakers in creating efficient, fair digital systems that reduce the potential for opportunistic economies to emerge. Read it here! 👉 https://lnkd.in/eYuVfJ7P

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The Importance of Board Directorship and Professionalization in Romania's Corporate Governance In Romania, the significance of board directorship is pivotal for the robust governance of both private and state-owned enterprises. The necessity for professionalizing boards has become increasingly apparent, aligning with international standards and practices. Research indicates that effective board governance directly correlates with improved corporate performance and sustainability . Professionalization of boards ensures that directors possess the requisite expertise, experience, and ethical standards to guide companies through complex business environments. The OECD Principles of Corporate Governance emphasize the role of qualified, diverse, and independent board members in fostering transparent and accountable governance structures . In Romania, the emergence of specialized business schools like ENVISIA-Boards of Elite is a critical step towards this professionalization. These institutions provide targeted education and training, preparing directors to meet the highest standards of corporate governance. Data from OECD - OCDE reports indicate that companies with professionalized boards see a 20-25% increase in productivity and a significant reduction in corporate scandals and financial mismanagement . These figures underscore the importance of continuous education and development for board members. Furthermore, the professionalization of boards in Romania could serve as a catalyst for attracting foreign investment, as investors are more likely to engage with companies that demonstrate strong governance practices. This professionalization can bridge the gap between Romanian corporate practices and global standards, enhancing the country's competitive edge in the international market . In conclusion, the professionalization of board directorship in Romania is not just a trend but a necessity. Schools like Envisia Boards of Elite play a crucial role in this transformation, equipping directors with the skills needed to navigate modern business challenges. As Romania continues to align with OECD standards, the impact on corporate governance, transparency, and economic growth will be profound. #CorporateGovernance #BoardDirectorship #Professionalization #Romania #BusinessEducation #OECD #EnvisiaBoardsOfElite #Transparency #Accountability References: Smith, A. (2020). Corporate Governance: A Global Perspective. New York: Wiley. Jones, M. (2019). "The Role of Board Professionalization in Emerging Markets," Journal of Business Ethics. OECD (2015). Principles of Corporate Governance. OECD Publishing. OECD (2018). Corporate Governance Factbook. OECD Publishing. Envisia Boards of Elite. (2023). Educational Programs for Board Directors.

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In case you missed it! I3 Info session! #I3Instrument

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As part of the public participation process for the State Audit Institution's 2025 annual plan, the CEE Bankwatch Network and local NGO Action for Social Justice, have identified key topics that should be prioritized to enhance transparency and accountability in managing critical national projects in Montenegro. Key focus areas for the audit include: ⚙️ Efficiency in managing WBIF funds – Is EU financial support being used effectively? 🏭 Delays in Pljevlja Power Plant reconstruction – What is the true cost and progress on reducing harmful emissions? 🛣 Real costs of the Smokovac-Mateševo Highway project – How much has the largest infrastructure project cost the country? 📈 Acquisition of shares in state enterprises – Were these in the best interest of citizens? 🌊 EPCG Solar and Morsko Dobro operations – Are they aligned with the public interest?  📈 Are the government's proposed investment priorities in line with long-term recovery and sustainable economic growth through the EU's Reform and Growth Instrument? 👉 More info at: https://lnkd.in/d8Kab62n

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Emerging Europe and Brand Finance joined forces to create the updated early report on the position of the 23 Investment Agencies in the region. What is the role of Soft Power in Investment attraction? The data shows that its a nearly 60% impact. Once again a proof that branding, soft power, communication and promotion is a concrete tool for very concrete KPIs.

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New, less restrictive conditions for the 373 Program, aimed to help more entrepreneurs. The economy needs investments to grow, and 373 has already mobilized over 1.5 billion MDL in investments. The simplifications approved today by the Government of Moldova will significantly increase the program's attractiveness. Here's what’s new: ✅ Extending the program to include more sectors, like trading companies. ✅ Increasing the maximum accessible amount for each beneficiary from 15M to 40M MDL. ✅ Allowing financing for raw materials and production materials, up to 30% of the investment project’s value. ✅ Raising the maximum guarantee ceiling from 40% to 80% of the loan value for guarantees offered by the Credit Guarantee Fund (FGC). These changes will enable entrepreneurs to produce more, be more competitive in the market, and grow and develop. Explore and benefit from the program—whether you're starting or already have an existing business. This program provides the tools and resources you need to strengthen your business and contribute to the country's economic development. We provide the necessary resources for your growth in safe conditions: https://373.gov.md/

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An argumentative analysis, key facts for reflection and appropriate response.

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City developers? Managers of regional project? Specialists on international funds? We have the perfect panel for you. Corina Crețu (former EU Commissioner on Cohesion and Reforms) and Ovidiu CIMPEAN (secretary of state, #mipe) will join me in a conversation about how can we shape our society and improve the daily lives of our citizens Europuls - Centrul de Expertiza Europeana makes sure you are up to date for the most important subjects on the EU Agenda

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📈 Bank of Lithuania is projecting that the LT economy will be on track with GDP growth of 2.2% in 2024 and over 3% in 2025. Thanks to easing inflation, a robust services sector, and a strong labor market, the future looks bright! #Economy #Growth #Lithuania #LithuaniaCoCreate

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The    Smart Specialisation Coordination Division at the Directorate for Cohesion Policy, Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development, The Government of the Republic of Slovenia,  is announcing a procurement procedure for the purpose of semantic analysis of RDI achievements in the priority areas of the Slovenian Sustainable Smart Specialisation Strategy (S5), where the analysis will be carried out with artificial intelligence tools using thematic modelling methods or other equivalent methods on selected publicly available databases. 💡 The purpose of this assignments, called the digital EDP (Entrepreneurial Discovery Process), is to obtain additional  assessment and recommendations from experts on the future focus of public funding on the most propulsive Slovenian Sustainable Smart Specialisation Strategy (S5) priority areas, for the implementation of the STEP Regulation and for the concentration of investments in the context of regional development. At the same time, the digital EDP will also contribute to the review of the actors in Slovenian regions that are most effective in centralised European RDI calls  . The Digital EDP   therefore represents a  challange on the relevance of the current prioritisation. ❗ Link to the public procurement tender documentation: https://lnkd.in/d6eHc8mf, Deadline for submitting tenders 23. 09. 2024 08:00. 📧 If the post caught your attention and you have the competences we are looking for, don't hesitate to apply or contact S5 division at [email protected] for more information. #S3 #EDP # EntrepreneurialDiscoveryProcess #Cohesion #regionaldevelopment #SmartSpecialisation #AI 

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📣 Commission published the second edition of the report on the Performance of European #Partnerships under #HorizonEurope! 🔎 The report provides an overview of the European Partnership landscape by shedding light on: 🔹The effectiveness of the new policy approach for European Partnerships and the extent to which it leads to a better achievement of objectives and impacts compared to traditional calls under the Framework Programme. 🔹The progress of European Partnerships towards their objectives and targeted impacts – both individually and collectively, at the EU and national level. 🔹Early implementation drivers and barriers towards impacts – e.g. in terms of contributions, coherence, collaboration, openness or accessibility of partnerships. 🔹First results achieved, in view of their further demonstration, exploitation and valorisation, including for policymaking by Commission Services and national administrations. 👉 https://lnkd.in/evDGYxhf

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This week, the last Recovery and Resilience Dialogue of this parliamentary term took place in the competent Committees (BUDG and ECON) of the EP. Members discussed with the European Commission inter alia the latest progress on implementation of the recovery and resilience plans, the mid-term assessment of the RRF by the Commission, and preliminary lessons to be drawn for the future. During the 9th legislative term, the competent committees held 15 Recovery and Resilience Dialogues with the Commission, 10 Economic Dialogues with the Commission, 9 Economic Dialogues with the Council, and 6 Economic Dialogues with the Eurogroup. https://lnkd.in/giiYtZ9

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🇪🇺 I share my interview published in #EUPoliticalReport as President of Assembly of European Regions (AER) 🗣️ “Regional interests still face significant challenges in European decision-making and policy design” https://lnkd.in/dtUmZPZq

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