Moldova signs historic security partnership with EU

Josep Borrell, E.U. foreign policy chief, said on Tuesday that Moldova has signed a security and defense partnership with the Union, becoming the first country to reach such an agreement with the bloc.

Under the leadership of pro-European President Maia Sandu, Moldova, strategically positioned between Ukraine and NATO and E.U. member Romania, aspires to join the European Union by 2030. The nation has vehemently condemned Russia’s full-scale invasion of neighboring Ukraine.

Borrell highlighted that this partnership will bolster Moldova’s resilience, enabling both parties to collectively tackle shared security challenges, enhance the effectiveness of their engagement, and explore new avenues for cooperation.

Prime Minister of Moldova Dorin Recean echoed these sentiments on social media, emphasizing that E.U. accession remains the most promising avenue for ensuring peace and stability for Moldova’s citizens. He hailed the signing of the E.U.-Moldova Security and Defense Partnership as a significant stride towards bolstering peace, security, and prosperity.

“Until then, the signing of the E.U.-Moldova Security and Defence Partnership is a step forward, enhancing our peace, security, and prosperity,” he stated.

In March, President Sandu sealed a defense cooperation agreement with France, warning of renewed efforts by Russia to destabilize Moldova. She underscored the urgency of halting Russian President Vladimir Putin’s aggression in Ukraine to prevent further destabilization in the region.

Moldova’s relations with Russia have soured, particularly amidst Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The comprehensive 28-point partnership plan acknowledges the increasingly complex security landscape following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

It outlines provisions for consultations across various sectors, including cyber threats, disinformation, counter-terrorism, and bolstering Moldova’s national security, stability, and defense resilience.

Cooperation extends to areas such as border management, combatting human trafficking and organized crime, as well as collaboration in international forums.