Moldova presents small arms and light weapons control measures at NATO meeting in context of regional security risks

The situation in the Republic of Moldova in the small arms and light weapons (SALW) control, in the context of security challenges generated by the war in Ukraine and the increased risks of illicit trafficking in weapons and ammunition was presented at a meeting of the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council (EAPC).

The information was presented by State Secretary of the Ministry of Internal Affairs Alexandru Bejan during a meeting dedicated to developments and initiatives in the field of SALW and demining activities.

The official highlighted the strengthening of national capacities for detecting illegal weapons, while also pointing out existing vulnerabilities such as unregistered weapons, the illegal conversion of non-lethal weapons, and the use of the online environment for criminal activities.

Alexandru Bejan presented the measures taken to strengthen the legal and institutional framework, including the alignment of national legislation with European Union standards, the adoption of the National Programme for Small Arms and Light Weapons Control for the period 2026–2030, the establishment of the National Focal Point for firearms, and the development of the automated State Firearms Register, which enables centralized record-keeping and real-time monitoring. The SALW Programme aims to reduce risks associated with illegal weapons, encourage the voluntary surrender of weapons, and strengthen the capacities of authorities, with a direct impact on community safety.

“Effective control of small arms and light weapons requires interinstitutional coordination, continuous adaptation to new threats and operational cooperation at regional and international level,” stated Bejan.

During the meeting, the importance of regional cooperation, information exchange and the support provided by NATO and international partners for the development of institutional capacities and the implementation of international standards in this field was also emphasized.

On the EAPC platform, Bejan held bilateral meetings with Eirini Lemos-Maniati, Head of Arms Control, Disarmament and WMD Non-Proliferation Section in the Political Affairs and Security Policy Division at NATO Headquarters, as well as with Romania’s ambassador to NATO Dan Nicolăescu. The discussions focused on regional security developments, the impact of the war in Ukraine on the risks of illicit arms trafficking, bilateral cooperation, information exchange and support for strengthening the institutional capacities of the Republic of Moldova.

The participation of the Republic of Moldova in the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council confirms the commitment of the national authorities to contribute to strengthening national and regional security through cooperation, transparency and the reinforcement of small arms and light weapons control mechanisms.