Minister of Defense: The Republic of Moldova is making progress in strengthening its defense capabilities
Despite facing current security challenges, the Republic of Moldova is making strides in enhancing its national resilience, including defense capabilities, to deter and counter hybrid threats. This effort aims to maintain peace, stability, and the security of its citizens, as stated by Moldovan Defense Minister Anatolie Nosatîi during the Black Sea and Balkans Security Forum in Bucharest. The minister emphasized the importance of maintaining constant dialogue and implementing joint initiatives, which are vital for strengthening cooperation, identifying effective solutions, and enhancing our collective ability to respond to current challenges.
It is essential to be part of a solid collective security framework to achieve the three strategic objectives of defending the country, providing support in crisis management, and expanding contributions to international peacekeeping efforts. This goal can only be accomplished through cooperation and dialogue, including joint initiatives, multinational exercises, interoperability, and cross-border economic projects. Establishing a strategic regional identity will undoubtedly help transform the Black Sea region from an area marred by tensions into a pillar of stability, said Anatolie Nosatîi.
During the event, Brigadier General Vitalie Micov, alongside the Minister of Defense, expressed the intention to reduce the duration of mandatory military service to attract more young people to the armed forces.
“We have tried various systems to recruit, retain, and develop the armed forces, but there is no perfect formula for success. We have maintained compulsory military service to educate the younger generation. We plan to reduce active military service from 12 months to 9 months, eventually to 4 months. If we do this, we believe that the interest of young people in joining the army and becoming professional soldiers will also increase. This is a very good solution for us to have more personnel in the army,” said Vitalie Micov.
The Black Sea and Balkans Security Forum, held on May 22-23 in Bucharest, serves as a platform for international dialogue on defense, security, and international relations issues in the Black Sea and Balkan regions.
In its ninth edition, the forum brings together officials, diplomats, military personnel, and analysts from EU and NATO member states and partner countries.
