Third National Army Contingent Leaves for Kosovo

CHISINAU, June 6, 2015 — “For Republic of Moldova, the presence of Moldovan soldiers in multinational exercises and peace-keeping missions is a reason to be proud of”, Prime Minister Chiril Gaburici stated during the deployment ceremony of the third National Army contingent to KFOR mission, held today at the Ministry of Defense.

The event brought together the leadership of Ministry of Defense and Main Staff, representatives of military and civilian diplomatic corps, and the families of the officers and NCOs that will leave for Kosovo.

Speaking about the Republic of Moldova’s contribution to KFOR mission, U.S. Ambassador James D. Petit mentioned that Moldovan soldiers are known on international arena as capable and qualified participants in current and future multinational operations. “Moldovan citizens must be proud of their armed forces that are well-trained and ready for any kind of missions”, said James D. Petit.

Ambassador of Italy to Chisinau, Enrico Nunziata, appreciated Moldova’s participation at Multinational Battle Group West of KFOR forces. “We are proud of the possibility to assist again a Moldovan contingent, which, is certainly ready to accomplish this mission and to provide active aid to the people of the region, like the other two Moldovan contingents did”, Enrico Nunziata specified.

Minister of Defense, Viorel Cibotaru, said during the ceremony that our country, as a member of the United Nations Organization, is an active actor in promoting world peace, stability, and security.

Viorel Cibotaru thanked the Governments of Italy and USA for providing logistics and transportation to Moldovan soldiers in Kosovo theater of operations.

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

The mission of KFOR-3 contingent, deployed in Camp Villaggio Italia multinational base in Pech village, Kosovo, will last six months.