Territory: 33, 8 thousands square km

Capital: Chisinau
Government: Parliamentary Republic
Geographical position: The Republic of Moldova is situated in the South-East part of the European continent and has a convenient geographical position, completed by direct exit to lower Danube and proximity of Black Sea. In the West, Republic of Moldova is bordered by Romania and in the other parts by the Ukraine (North, East and South).
Length from North to South : 350 km
from West to East : 150 km Main rivers: Nistru, Prut, Raut
Main natural lakes: Beleu, Salat, Dracele, Rotunda

CURRENCY

The currency used in the country is Moldovan Lei (MDL) with coins called Bani. Its exchange rate is around 1 EURO = 17,00 MDL and 1 USD = 12,15 MDL. Major currencies (Dollars and Euros) can be exchanged in any bank or at an exchange office. Automatic Teller Machines for credit cards (Master, Maestro, Visa, etc.) are also available. These dispense local currency only.

WEATHER 

Moldova has moderate continental climate. The four seasons of the year are clearly defined. The summer is hot and long, with long dry periods. The average temperature in June is about +30°C, but in sometimes can reach +35 to +40°C. The summer rains are in most cases heavy and of short duration, sometimes causing local flooding.

DEVELOPMENT INDICATORS

Since its independence in 1991, Moldova's development has been impaired by numerous challenges. Its development indicators rank amongst lowest in Europe. The normative framework of rights, inherent in its constitution and in its ratified international treaties, is both positive and significant.

Implementation of this framework, however, needs urgent attention. Achievement of most of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) is assessed as probable. Specifically, Republic of Moldova still has to make continuous efforts to eradicate poverty, improve child health, combat tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS and protect Human Rights. The priorities of the World Summit Outcome Document have been dully taken into consideration in the process of developing the National Health Policy that shall provide an overarching framework for complex multidisciplinary interventions aiming to ensure better health and wellbeing of the Moldovan population. In the context of the changing aid environment, the government of Moldova and international and bilateral donors have signed a Partnership Framework, aiming to enhance the aid effectiveness through aid harmonization and co-ordination, for the betterment of the Moldovan population, in achieving poverty reduction and the Millennium Development Goals.