The European Union handed over 40 patrol vehicles and 100 body cameras to the General Inspectorate of Police (GIP) within an EU funded project implemented by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in the Republic of Moldova. The donation, worth €710 000, aims to strengthen the capabilities of the Police to respond promptly to emergency situations and protect the rights of people living in local communities. European Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement Olivér Várhelyi said that the donation illustrates EU-Moldova joint commitments to reinforce the protection of the most vulnerable be it Moldovan and/or refugees and to provide the Moldovan policewomen and policemen with the best conditions to operate in a challenging and fast-evolving environment, IPN reports.

The patrol vehicles will be deployed across the country to strengthen the GIP’s capabilities to respond in a timely manner to any emergency situations. “We are convinced that the assistance delivered today will contribute to further build modern, accountable and digital law enforcement police, closer to its citizens,” stated Commissioner Várhelyi.

Minister of Internal Affairs Adrian Efros said that the Republic of Moldova has reaffirmed its crucial role as a bridge between the European Union and Ukraine, facilitating the safe evacuation and transit of individuals impacted by the conflict. “Our project continues to prioritize the provision of dignified reception, emergency health assistance, protection, and secure transit routes for Ukrainian refugees seeking safety and stability,” said Minister Efros.

“The Republic of Moldova has been particularly welcoming and responsive to the tremendous humanitarian needs since February 2022. As the war enters a protracted phase, the scale of humanitarian needs remains vast. Scaling up border management activities, with continued generous financial support of the European Union, will facilitate the assistance and protection for conflict-affected populations crossing borders and ensure that safe pathways are guaranteed by rights-based policies and procedures,” declared Damien Fresnel, IOM Moldova’s Head of Programs.