US Generals and Admirals Study the Security System of the Republic of Moldova

CHISINAU, February 15, 2016 — An American delegation consisting of 18 generals pays a documentation visit to the Republic of Moldova within February 12-16, 2016. On this occasion, at the Ministry of Defense, the military officials met with the leadership of the institution and the National Army Commanding Officer Corps.

The main issues discussed at the meeting were the role of the Ministry of Defense within the Moldovan security system, the defense sector reformation, the main military strategic documents, the contribution of the USA and OSCE, EU, and NATO to the achievement of national defense objectives, participation of Moldovan soldiers in international peacekeeping missions, as well as the major defense challenges.

Minister of Defense Anatol Salaru mentioned that the leadership of the institution aims to reform the National Army in order to conform it to Euro-Atlantic standards. The Minister said that the National Army needs active, trained forces, modern weapons, military equipment and vehicles, that would ensure the fulfillment of missions stipulated by Constitution. “The goals I set require financial resources exceeding the current budget of the Ministry of Defense. Thus, the assistance from out partners becomes crucial. I would like to mention that, beside the USA, an important contribution to the National Army development is made by Romania, Lithuania, France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Sweden, and other foreign partners”, stated Anatol Salaru.

Minister Salaru also appreciated the support of the American Government to the Republic of Moldova in all the important sectors, including social, economic, and educational field. “This assistance proves that the USA is a strategic and trustworthy partner of our country. I appreciate the military cooperation with the US and hope that this relationship will be strengthened”, said the Minister of Defense.

The American delegation comprised generals, admirals and one civilian member of the senior executive service from the US Department of Defense. The delegation members are participants of the Capstone executive course.

The Capstone course offers the possibility to recently promoted officers and executive officials to study the national security and foreign policy.