The focus of the talks was also the administrative-territorial reform in the country

The successful transformation of Taraclia State University as a branch of the „Angel Kanchev“ University of Ruse and the progress of administrative-territorial reform in Moldova were discussed by President Iliana Iotova with representatives of Bulgarian organisations in Moldova.

The head of state spoke with the administrative director of the university branch, Alexander Borimechkov, Georgi Barbarov - chairman of the Bulgarian Municipality of Moldova, and the chairman of the Taraclia Region, Lazar Dermenzhi.

Iliana Iotova highlighted the activity of the educational process in the branch of the University of Ruse in the town of Taraclia, where the Bulgarian community in Moldova is concentrated. The branch officially opened its doors last year and there is great interest in it. The educational institution trains 175 bachelors, 41 masters and three doctoral students.

Alexander Borimechkov introduced the president to the project for the renovation of the university dormitory. Iotova stated that in addition to opening new specialties that attract students, further efforts should be directed towards partnerships with business for joint educational programs. The head of state emphasised that the active role of our community in the education of Bulgarian school-age children is also important.

Iliana Iotova stated her consistent support for preserving the integrity of the Taraclia region as a condition for preserving the identity of the numerous Bulgarian diaspora in Moldova, which has over 200 years of history. The President pointed out that the authorities in the country assure that the region will retain its autonomy even after the completion of the administrative reform. It is necessary to maintain an active dialogue with the local authorities until the process is finalised, President Iotova pointed out.