The OSCE Projects in the Republic of Moldova Discussed at the Ministry of Defense

CHISINAU, December 12, 2017 — The cooperation between the Ministry of Defense and the OSCE Mission to the Republic of Moldova through the projects conducted by the two institutions was discussed today by Minister of Defense Eugen Sturza and Head of the Mission to our country, Michael Scanlan.

The officials reviewed the joint actions in the sector of weapons and ammunition stockpile management, professional reconversion, and informing the public about the dangers of unexploded ammunition.

Eugen Sturza informed the Head of the OSCE Mission that his priority during the mandate as Minister of Defense will be to modernize the defense sector with investments in infrastructure, to increase the National Army’s participation in peacekeeping operations and to strengthen the bilateral partnership, and the cooperation with international organizations as well.

Regarding the cooperation with the OSCE, the Minister of Defense mentioned the Mission’s contribution to the re-training of 220 National Army officers within resettlement courses, the dismantling and destruction of 50 tons of dangerous ammunition, as well as the public information campaign concerning the danger of unexploded ammunition.

Minister Sturza also appreciated the Mission’s involvement in the Training project on Weapons and ammunition stockpile management that aimed to develop the capabilities of the National Army Weapons and Ammunition Center, to train specialists in the field, to create appropriate and safe storage conditions for ammunition in the National Army’s depots, in compliance with the best international practices.

Michael Scanlan reiterated the Mission’s availability to continue the activities started under the Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Defense and OSCE Mission to Moldova on the implementation of the Comprehensive Programme on Small Arms and Light Weapons and Conventional Ammunition, signed on October 28, 2010.