The EU's permanent structured cooperation in the field of security and defence (PESCO) with the Eastern Partnership Member States is an objective that cannot currently be achieved. The involvement of the Republic of Moldova in the PESCO projects is appropriate, as it will be offered the capacity to respond to possible natural disasters and military crises. The opinions have been expressed at a national conference, organized by the Institute for European Policies and Reforms (IPRE) in cooperation with Hanns Seidel Foundation, IPN reports.
Tatiana Molcean, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration, has mentioned that the Republic of Moldova has set a priority to strengthen cooperation with the EU. Although the general criteria say that Eastern Partnership countries can participate in PESCO based on the commitment of availability, these criteria are not clearly defined. "I hope that this step will be taken in the near future, which will allow us to benefit from certain projects," said Tatiana Molcean. The Secretary of State has also specified that the Republic of Moldova wants closer cooperation with the EU for the development and strengthening of defence capabilities.
Mihai Mogîldea, IPRE expert, mentioned that the Republic of Moldova should be involved in the PESCO projects. This can be done if the Government adopts a strategic framework, mentioning that the country wants to increase the number of personnel involved in the EU missions of this kind. Likewise, the EU should increase its presence in the Republic of Moldova to help develop defence instruments and mechanisms, noted the IPRE expert.
According to the Romanian Ambassador in Chisinau, Daniel Ioniță, today the entire Europe faces the same set of challenges, risks and threats, which must be faced together. In the ambassador’s opinion, this could be achieved through close cooperation within the EU, but also by involving EU member states in the dialogue with Eastern Partnership partners.
The diplomat has also mentioned that the EU has a direct and immediate interest in helping the Republic of Moldova to stay on the path of democratic reforms, to respect its commitments. At the same time, NATO has launched a series of projects and programs for Moldova aimed at reforming the armed forces, objectives that do not affect the neutrality status.
In 2017, the European Council adopted a decision establishing permanent structured cooperation, called PESCO, within the framework of which the EU states intend to cooperate more closely in the field of security and defence and jointly develop defence measures, invest in joint projects and improve the field of security and defence.
