Moldovan-American Meeting at the Ministry of Defense

CHISINAU, May 2, 2013 — Acting Defense Minister Vitalie Marinuta met with Maj.Gen. Gregory Lusk, Adjutant General, North Carolina National Guard.

The officials discussed about the current cooperation between the National Army and North Carolina National Guard and the perspectives of cooperation between the two defense institutions.

Defense Minister Vitalie Marinuta appreciated the US financial support in the defense reform, as well as the American side’s contribution to building a positive image of the defense institution in the society. “National Army is the leader among government institutions as far as citizens’ credibility is concerned and this achievement is also due to the military and social cooperation with North Carolina National Guard. We are thankful to you for that”, Defense Minister said.

Vitalie Marinuta expressed his confidence that the partnership between the Moldovan defense institution and North Carolina National Guard will flourish. The official stated that the National Army will continue working on the strategic goals of military personnel training and professionalization assumed as part of the Moldovan-American partnership, regardless of political challenges our country goes through nowadays. “Republic of Moldova currently undergoes significant political changes. However, the National Army keeps doing its duty in preparing and training the contingents for international peacekeeping operations, as well as supporting the professionalization of military personnel within educational programs financed by the Americans — these are goals assumed in the framework of the Moldovan-American partnership”, acting Defense Minister said.

In his turn, Maj.Gen. Gregory Lusk noticed the dynamic and multi-dimensional character of cooperation between the two defense institutions. “The cooperation between the USA and Republic of Moldova started from the National Army. Then, it expanded to civilian area too. We appreciate your responsiveness and commitment to goals assumed within the Moldovan-American partnership. Republic of Moldova has always been a trustful partner given the achievements in promoting democracy, reform and other projects carried out in the defense and social areas”, the American official said.

The American delegation also met with Brigadier Gen. Vitalie Stoian, Chief of Main Staff, Commander of the National Army.

During their stay in Republic of Moldova within May 2-3, the American delegation will visit the Central Military Clinic, Brigade Moldova, the 22^nd Peacekeeping Battalion and Special Forces Battalion “Fulger”.

Moldovan-American defense cooperation is based on the Defense Cooperation Agreement signed by the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Moldova and the US Department of Defense on December 4, 1995.