NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has reaffirmed the alliance’s support for the Republic of Moldova and called on Russia to withdraw its troops from Moldovan territory. Stoltenberg made this statement during a joint press conference with Prime Minister Dorin Recean.
“NATO and Moldova have worked together for 30 years, and in these very complicated times, we are deepening our partnership even further. Moscow continues to exert pressure on Moldova, including energy blackmail and disinformation, with the aim of destabilizing society and undermining your democracy. But Moldova has responded resolutely, condemning the invasion of Ukraine and strengthening its resilience and security at home. NATO fully supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Moldova. We call on Russia to withdraw its troops from your territory. You can count on our continued assistance. Earlier this year, NATO approved a substantial assistance package to strengthen your cybersecurity and strategic communication capabilities, as well as to enhance your defense capacity. Also, at the Vilnius Summit, we decided to increase practical and political cooperation,” Stoltenberg stated.
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According to him, NATO’s assistance will help Moldova on its path to EU membership. He also thanked Moldova for its contribution to the KFOR peacekeeping mission in Kosovo.
Prime Minister Dorin Recean, in turn, stated that Moldova is committed to enhancing its defense capabilities.
“We greatly appreciate NATO’s and the member countries’ support. We are enhancing our defense capabilities, and Russia’s aggression in Ukraine has prompted even greater efforts on our part. Together with our friends, we are developing the resilience of our society and institutions, as well as our defense capabilities. We are very willing to participate in international missions and exercises that would strengthen our capabilities and interoperability. Again, I want to express our appreciation for NATO and the member states,” Recean said.
The Prime Minister is currently in Brussels, where he will engage in discussions with NATO Allies as part of the North Atlantic Council, chaired by NATO Deputy Secretary-General Mircea Geoană.