The North Atlantic Alliance (NATO) is strengthening its support to Moldova, respecting its neutrality.
The draft final declaration of the NATO summit in Vilnius (July 11 – 12), analyzed by Europa Libera, refers to Chisinau’s old commitments to Russia. Among other things: “Russia must respect Moldova’s right to determine its own future and foreign policy course without interference from outside”.
The statement notes support for Moldova’s European integration, as well as democratic reforms. It also emphasizes NATO’s practical assistance in strengthening stability and protecting the country’s political independence from a deteriorating security climate: “NATO is increasing its political support to strengthen stability and protect political independence.”
The document also states that NATO is providing practical assistance to Moldova through an “enhanced” mechanism called “Defence Capacity Building and Modernization Package for its Armed Forces”.
Moldova is represented at the NATO summit in Vilnius by Foreign Minister Nic Popescu, who was to be invited to meet with his counterparts from the alliance and partner organizations.
