The Republic of Moldova became a full member of the South-Eastern Europe Defence Ministerial Process (SEDM) during Romania’s chairmanship of this format, Romania’s Defence Minister Angel Tilvar said on Wednesday, during a meeting with his counterpart from the neighboring country Anatolie Nosatyi.

According to a press release the National Defence Ministry (MApN) sent to AGERPRES, the two ministers held a dialogue on the sidelines of the South-Eastern Europe Defence Ministerial Process meeting, which took place in Tirana, Albania.

The discussions between the two ministers focused on recent developments regarding the security situation in the Black Sea region and the European path of the Republic of Moldova. Minister Tilvar underscored the importance of firm support for the Republic of Moldova in the face of security challenges and attempts at destabilisation, which are part of Russia’s hybrid actions.

„We congratulated our partners in Chisinau on the re-election of Maia Sandu as President of the Republic of Moldova, as well as for the results of the referendum, which demonstrate their irreversible commitment to European integration. We will continue the political-military dialogue to respond to Chisinau’s needs for support on the country’s European path,” said the Romanian minister.

Angel Tilvar highlighted that the Republic of Moldova is the first country to sign a Partnership in the area of security and defence with the European Union, on May 21. This partnership, along with bilateral initiatives and financial support provided through the European Peace Facility, plays a crucial role in modernising and strengthening the armed forces of the Republic of Moldova. The Romanian minister reiterated the importance of comprehensive support from the European Union for the security, stability, and resilience of the Republic of Moldova.

Furthermore, Minister Tilvar welcomed the Republic of Moldova’s participation, for the first time as a full member, in the South-Eastern Europe Defence Ministerial Process, following its formal accession in Ankara last year. This participation marks an important step in the country’s integration into regional security cooperation structures.

AGERPRES