On Tuesday (28 February 2023), NATO and the Republic of Moldova inaugurated a Professional Development Programme for Moldovan civil servants and institutions in the security and defence sector. The launch event brought together Moldovan officials, the NATO Liaison Office in the Republic of Moldova, NATO Allied and Partner nations, as well as civil society representatives.
The new Head of the NATO Liaison Office in the Republic of Moldova, Michaela Šimáková, underlined that the Programme represents another milestone in the long-standing NATO-Republic of Moldova partnership: "I trust that the Programme will make a difference for Moldova. The programme is demand driven and tailored to meet the needs and requirements of the Moldovan authorities. The NATO Liaison Office in Chisinau will continue to support and facilitate the NATO-Moldova partnership, including through capacity building."
State Secretary of the State Chancellery of the Republic of Moldova, Adrian Băluţel, said: "In the current environment, and based on experience during recent crises, it is indispensable to look at security with a broad perspective. This programme shall help Moldova develop its capacities and promote coordination among institutions on security matters."
The objective of the NATO-Republic of Moldova Professional Development Programme is to enhance professional development of civilian personnel and civil service capacities in the defence and security sector. Set up in response to Moldova's request, the Programme includes professional development opportunities such as training, courses, internships and study visits that will allow beneficiaries to gain more expertise and practical experience. Activities are organized by the NATO Liaison Office in Chisinau in close coordination with Moldovan institutions.
NATO supports the Programme through the Defence Capacity Building Trust Fund, sponsored by Allied and partner nations including Czechia, Germany, Luxembourg, Poland, Slovakia, the United Kingdom, Finland, Sweden, and Switzerland.
