American cars for Moldovan border guards

The Border Guard Service of Moldova has today received a $591,000 U.S. donation, consisting of 10 cars and other equipment, in assistance to the border control activity. The donation was made by U.S. Ambassador to Moldova Michael Kirby, on the occasion of the 15th anniversary of the Border Guard Service. The equipment was offered under the U.S. Department of State’s Export Control and Related Border Security Assistance Program (EXBS), present in Moldova since 1999. Through EXBS, the border guard services have benefited from equipment as well as training courses. Besides the 10 cars, the donation includes 50 night-vision binoculars and 200 flashlights. The event was attended by Prime Minister Vasile Tarlev, who expressed his gratitude for the daily work done by the guards at the borders of the country. He highly appreciated the contribution of the border guards in the process of assuring a stability framework for the country under the conditions of social, political and economic challenges. According to him, the role of the Border Guards is increasing, especially considering the current priorities regarding the European integration and the reintegration of the country. General Director of the Border Guard Department Igor Colenov thanked the workers and veterans of the institution, who were present at the event in a symbolical number of 15 persons, for patriotism and devotion. The event ended with a parade of the department and presentations of military equipment.