Republic of Moldova and France to Strengthen Defense Cooperation

CHISINAU, January 24, 2018 — The Moldovan-French defense cooperation was discussed today by Minister of Defense Eugen Sturza and Ambassador of France in the Republic of Moldova, Pascal Le Deunff.

The Minister of Defense informed the French official about the institution’s priorities for 2018. Eugen Sturza referred to the strategic and legal framework in the defense sector through the drafting and approval of the National Defense Strategy and the Military Strategy. These documents developed during phase I of the Defense Capacity Building Initiative (DCBI) were drawn up with the help of NATO experts. For the implementation of phase II of the DCBI, the National Army aims to develop its military capabilities.

Minister Sturza also mentioned that another important goal of the defense institution for this year is to increase participation of the Republic of Moldova in international peacekeeping missions and operations, including the one in Kosovo.

Eugen Sturza highlighted the institution’s effort oriented towards training military and civilian staff in compliance with the newest practices. Minister Sturza appreciated the financial and logistical support offered by the French counterparts for the development of the Linguistics Center of the Military Academy of Armed Forces “Alexandru cel Bun”, the opportunities for Moldovan service members to study in French military institutions, and the internship for the cadets of the two armies in specialized educational institutions from the Republic of Moldova and France.

Pascal Le Deunff said that France is interested in developing and strengthening the bilateral military cooperation, especially in the sector of linguistic training and participation in peacekeeping operations.