Parliament approved the National Defence Strategy 2024–2034 today. A commission established by a decree from Moldova’s president, consisting of representatives from defense-related institutions, developed the strategy. The parliamentary opposition strongly criticized the document.
Defence Minister Anatolie Nosatii presented the strategy, explaining that it fulfills the legal obligation to update it as a follow-up to the National Security Strategy adopted in 2024. The approach relies on Moldova’s Constitution, including its neutrality status, the Law on National Defence, the government’s action program, and international commitments.
“The strategy provides a clear vision and demonstrates a firm commitment to modernizing the defense sector and integrating it into European security mechanisms. It reflects Moldova’s role as a state advocating for peace and well-being. Each goal represents a concrete step toward a safer and more prosperous future for our citizens,” Nosatii said.
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The strategy sets the following key objectives:
- Modernizing national defense capabilities.
- Aligning with European Union standards.
- Strengthening bilateral, regional, and international partnerships in defense and security.
- Positioning Moldova as a regional and international provider of security and stability.
The strategy emphasizes strengthening military capacities, ensuring the armed forces’ readiness for peacekeeping missions, preparing citizens for crises, and enhancing airspace supervision and control.
Lawmakers prioritized aligning national legislation with EU standards in the defense sector. They also focused on improving cyber defense, modernizing critical and energy infrastructure, and optimizing education and research in security and defense.
Nosatii emphasized the constitutional principle of neutrality, explaining its influence on defense policy: “Moldova upholds its constitutional neutrality by prohibiting foreign troop deployments, avoiding military alliances, and staying out of armed conflicts. However, the illegal presence of Russian military forces complicates international recognition of this neutrality. At the same time, neutrality does not prevent Moldova from collaborating with partner states and organizations in security and defense.”
Lilian Carp, head of the parliamentary commission for national security, defense, and public order, confirmed that consultations shaped the document and that most lawmakers supported it.
Parliament debated the strategy for an hour, and the opposition voiced sharp criticism.