The Council of Europe has organised a 2-day workshop on strategic analysis for the staff of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) of the Republic of Moldova (operative and analytical departments). The primary goal of the workshop was to enhance the strategic analysis capabilities of FIU employees, a critical component in identifying and mitigating the risks of money laundering (ML) and terrorist financing (TF). The training sessions covered the use of specialised analytical tools, data interpretation techniques, development of high-quality strategic analysis products, and methods to enhance inter-agency cooperation and information sharing.

Council of Europe consultants provided expert-led discussions and practical exercises, facilitating a comprehensive understanding of the strategic analysis processes. Key topics such as the intelligence cycle and risk-based approach in conducting strategic analysis were emphasized, with particular focus on the applicability to Moldova’s specific context.

Participants engaged in dynamic group exercises and discussions, including through a simulation of a trade-based money laundering scheme, which underscored the identification of ML/FT typologies as a relevant aspect for strategic analysis products. The workshop concluded with a session on reporting and disseminating strategic analysis results for the use of reporting entities and law enforcement authorities, further solidifying the knowledge gained over the two days.

Mr. Adrian Munteanu, Deputy Director of FIU of the Republic of Moldova, Ms. Nadejda Plamadeala, Program Manager at the Council of Europe, and Mr. Zydrunas Bartkus, EU High-Level Adviser on AML, delivered opening remarks, underscoring the importance of the workshop in enhancing FIU’s internal competences in developing effective strategic analysis results.

“We thank the Council of Europe for remaining committed to supporting Moldova’s efforts to strengthen its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing regime,” noted Mr Munteanu. This workshop represents a meaningful step forward in equipping FIU personnel with the necessary skills and knowledge to combat economic crimes effectively.

This event is part of the European Union and the Council of Europe joint programme “Partnership for Good Governance”, co-funded by the European Union and the Council of Europe, and implemented by the Council of Europe, in the framework of the project on “Strengthening the Anti-Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Regime in the Republic of Moldova”.