The Commission for Exceptional Situations (CES) approved the institution of the EU Partnership Mission in the Republic of Moldova (EUPM) under the Common Security and Defence Policy, IPN reports.

The objective of this civilian mission is to enhance the resilience of the security sector of the country in the areas of crisis management and hybrid threats, including cybersecurity, and countering foreign information manipulation and interference.

Until an agreement on the status of the Mission is negotiated and signed with the EU, the employees, offices, assets and funds of the Mission will benefit from privileges and immunities applicable to diplomatic missions. Among the privileges is the freedom to enter the Republic of Moldova, travel in and leave the country with or without the necessary vehicles, related to their official duty.

The goods intended for EUPM Moldova, which are taken into or out of Moldova, will be exempted from import/export duties, taxes and other similar payments, others than storage and transportation costs and costs related to similar services. The introduction of goods into or out of Moldova is allowed without any restriction. The period of stay in the country for units of transport is unlimited.

The Mission members will benefit from immunity in judicial procedures and will be spared from any searches, confiscation or execution acts. The personnel of the EUPM Moldova, others than those who are Moldovan citizens or those who have the permanent residence in Moldova, will be exempted from tax on remuneration and other recompenses.

The Mission’s employees who are Moldovans or permanent residents do not benefit from the mentioned immunity, privileges and concessions.

Romanian diplomat Cosmin Dinescu already took up his duties in Chisinau as Head of the EU Partnership Mission in the Republic of Moldova.