The Moldovan authorities aim to modernize the security and defense sectors in accordance with the new developments and requirements of the current security environment so as to cope with the new challenges. In this connection, the Cabinet approved the Republic of Moldova – NATO Individual Partnership Action Plan (IPAP), IPN reports.
According to Minister of Foreign Affairs Nicu Popescu, neutrality does not mean isolation of the country. “We are firmly decided to develop cooperation with our partners in fighting new common threats to security, such as terrorism and cyber threats, and to contribute to promoting stability and security in the region and on the European continent. The role of this partnership that is absolutely necessary for our country is to bring benefits to the citizens of the Republic of Moldova, to strengthen the state institutors in the fields of security and defense, contributing to the achievement of the objective to continue to be a stability factor in the region,” he stated.
The document envisions the modernization of the National Army in accordance with the new developments and requirements of the current security environment so as to cope with the new challenges and to also accelerate the reform of the Border Police and Carabineer Troops. To achieve these objectives, the Republic of Moldova will cooperate with the European Union and other international organizations and will take steps to supplement IPAP with measures stipulated in the Moldova–EU Association Agreement and the National Development Strategy.
IPAP sets down the cooperation objectives in a number of areas of strategic importance, such as cooperation with European and Euro-Atlantic institutions, democratic reforms, human rights, the rule of law, fight against corruption, fight against terrorism, territorial integrity and relations with neighbors, sustainable economic development and others.
Since 2006, IPAP has been updated periodically.
