A New National Army Contingent Leaves for Kosovo (video)

CHISINAU, June 3, 2016 — The deployment ceremony of the fifth National Army contingent to KFOR peacekeeping operation in Kosovo was held today at the Ministry of Defense. The event was attended by country’s leadership, representatives of civil and military diplomatic corps, as well as the families of officers and NCOs deployed to KFOR mission.

President of the Republic of Moldova, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, Nicolae Timofti, stated that due to the extraordinary performance of National Army service members, the Republic of Moldova strengthens its image as a contributor to peace and stability. “Currently, the participation of international forces in Kosovo mission becomes more and more important. This becomes obvious by observing how the region’s security situation is evolving. The Western Balkans face a massive influx of immigrants and a more and more aggressive recruiting campaign conducted by extremist groups. Thus, in the context of these challenges faced by the European continent, we believe that it is crucial to promote the collective solidarity and a homogenous perception of the issues concerning the security”, said Nicolae Timofti.

Ambassador of Italy to Chisinau, Enrico Nunziata, mentioned that the Italian battalion participating in the Kosovo mission is proud to continue to offer support to their Moldovan friends. “On behalf of the Italian government, I wish to express the most sincere appreciation for the extraordinary contribution of Moldovan troops to maintaining peace in Kosovo”, specified Enrico Nunziata.

Minister of Defense, Anatol Salaru, encouraged the service members who are to leave for Kosovo to continue with responsibility and dignity the work started by their colleagues and to contribute to the stability in the Balkans region together with the soldiers from other countries. “Dear soldiers, do not forget that the image of the Republic of Moldova depends also on you. Thus, I encourage you to fulfill your mission with dignity and not to forget our national values. I am sure that this experience will strengthen you and will help you grow professionally”, said Anatol Salaru.

The fifth National Army contingent, that will leave for Kosovo on Sunday, June 5, consists of 41 service members, out of which one staff officer, 7 EOD engineers, and a platoon of 33 soldiers that will carry out security, guard and patrol missions.

The Moldovan contingent will be stationed in Camp Villaggio Italia multinational base in Pech village, Kosovo. Their mission in Kosovo will last six months.