Negotiations on Common Security and Defense Policy

CHISINAU, May 3, 2012 — Deputy Minister Igor Panfile met Thursday, May 3, with a group of European experts headed by Timothy Clarke, head of the Partnership and Agreement Policy Division of Common Security and Defense Policy, European External Action Service.

Sources of the Defense Policy and Planning Directorate stated the visit had been held as part of the talks on Common Security and Defense Policy (PSAC) held in Chisinau and represents the positive follow-up of the enhancement of the dialogue between the Republic of Moldova and its European partners.

The Deputy Defense Minister stated Republic of Moldova participation in PSAC is a responsibility assumed within the Association Agreement signed by the European Union and the Republic of Moldova. Igor Panfile also said this goal is highlighted in strategic documents such as the Government’s Activity Program and the National Security Strategy.

During the meeting, the European experts got acquainted with the main achievements in the defense reform area, as well as the Republic of Moldova’s peacekeeping performances. On the other hand, the EU experts pointed out the area of PSAC implementation and the capabilities of the countries committed to adjust the national security and defense policy to PSAC standards.

While in the Republic of Moldova, the European delegation had some discussions on PSAC issue with the representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration, as well as the Parliamentary Commission on Foreign Relations and European Integration. The talks focused on the main achievements in getting ready for the negotiations on the cooperation agreement problem, which is a document meant to establish the framework and conditions for the further participation of the Republic of Moldova in EU crisis management operations.

PSAC contains a series of tools extremely necessary for the Republic of Moldova defense and security policy, foreign policies and civil crisis management. The contribution to PSAC gives new opportunities for the progress of security reform area.