Neutrality is not a security umbrella and Ukraine, which is a neutral state that became the victim of Russia’s military aggression, is the most pertinent example in this regard, said ex-Deputy Prime Minister for Reintegration Gheorghe Bălan. According to him, as the rules of world order were violated, the Republic of Moldova should analyze the option of accession to NATO. For his part, political commentator Ion Tăbîrță said the entry into NATO is the best solution that can ensure Moldova’s security, IPN reports.
Under Article 11 of the Constitution, the Republic of Moldova is a neural state that does not allow foreign military troops to be dispatched to its territory, Contrary to the neutrality status, about 1,700 Russia soldiers were deployed on the left side of the Nistru. Former Deputy Premier for Reintegration Gheorghe Bălan said the joining of NATO should be more often discussed in the public sphere.
“The word neutrality does not protect us from risks to the security of the Republic of Moldova. The people must realize that neutrality is credible when you have a strong army, a solid economy, citizens who are ready to defend the country and partners that are disposed to help when necessary. The population perceives the notion of neutrality stipulated in the Constitution in a positive way, but we have the Russian presence on our territory and this shows that this status of neutrality is not respected. We have the example of Ukraine, which is a neutral state, with security guarantees envisioned by the memorandum of Budapest, including on behalf of Russia, and we have a large-scale war and attempts to occupy this country. We are witnesses to the disruption of the international order. That’s why we should discuss the subject of neutrality with the population and decide what formula should be applied in the future. If we want to remain neutral, we need a strong army like Switzerland’s. Or we must have different partnerships and agreements on mutual defense by keeping neutrality. Or we can discuss the replacement of the status of neutrality and the entry into NATO,” Gheorghe Bălan stated in the program “Emphasis on Today” on TVR Moldova channel
Political commentator Ion Tăbîrță said NATO’s civilian programs in Moldova contributed to strengthening the country’s security and, against the background of the war in Ukraine, Chisinau should insist on coming closer to NATO.
“In the future, from security viewpoint, the entry into NATO is the best variant for the Republic of Moldova. We have the example of the Baltic States that are situated close to the Russian Federation. If they hadn’t been NATO members, Russia would have definitely intruded into these states one way or another. But it is the Republic of Moldova that should decide the extent of its relationship with NATO. We had good programs and partnerships with NATO. Those programs enabled the body of officers of the Republic of Moldova to take part in training, to professionalize their activity. The authorities should review the relationship with NATO and should openly say how the Republic of Moldova’s security can be ensured by the relationship with NATO,” stated Ion Tăbârță.
According to a public opinion survey presented by WatchDog Community in April, 52.6% of those polled said that they are against Moldova’s entry into NATO, while 34.6% would vote for joining NATO in an eventual referendum.
