The Council of the European Union on Thursday adopted two assistance measures under the European Peace Facility (EPF) in support of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Moldova and the Georgian Defense Forces to enhance national security, stability and resilience in the defense sector of both countries, IPN reports, quoting a press release of the Council.
For the Republic of Moldova, the adopted assistance measure is worth €40 million over a period of 36 months and will finance non-lethal equipment, supplies and services, to the units of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Moldova including technical training, where requested. The approved equipment includes air surveillance, mobility and transportation, logistics, command and control, and cyber-defense equipment.
Josep Borrell, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, said that with these new assistances, they continue to support the modernization of the capacities of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Moldova and the Georgian Defense Forces. “In a challenging geopolitical context and in line with their European aspirations, we are helping to strengthen their defense sectors and enhance their ability to participate in EU military missions and operations. This is the third assistance package for both countries under the EPF, clearly underlining the EU’s unwavering commitment to the region’s security and stability,” stated the EU official.
Building on previous EPF support, the latest assistance measures will contribute to enhancing the operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Moldova and the Georgian Defense Forces, and accelerate their compliance with EU standards and interoperability, thereby allowing for better protection of civilians during crises and emergencies. The measures are also aimed at strengthening the Moldovan and Georgian capacities with respect to their participation in EU military missions and operations in third countries, runs the press release.
The assistance measure was requested by the Republic of Moldova on 6 February 2023, and complements the €40 million assistance measure adopted in June 2022 and the €7 million one adopted in December 2021.
