PHOTO // Moldova's National Army deploys new contingent to Kosovo; servicemen to carry out security, patrol missions

The National Army of Moldova has deployed the 25th military contingent to the international KFOR peacekeeping operation in Kosovo. The 41 Moldovan military will participate, for six months, in security missions, protection of military facilities and patrols within their area of responsibility.

The official deployment ceremony took place with the participation of the leadership of the Ministry of Defence and the General Staff of the National Army, representatives of the NATO Liaison Office in Moldova and of the Embassy of Italy in Moldova, military attachés, as well as the soldiers’ relatives.

Defence Minister Anatolie Nosatii wished the soldiers success in fulfilling their missions and highlighted the importance of Moldova’s participation in the KFOR operation for strengthening regional peace and security.

“The presence in this mission for more than 12 years reconfirms the commitment we have undertaken to strengthen regional peace and security. It is also proof that we have professional servicemen, capable of acting at the highest standards of interoperability and representing Moldova with honor around the world. I thank our partners for having supported us and for continuing to stand by us on this path,” stated Anatolie Nosatii.

Also present at the event was Deputy Head of the Embassy of Italy in Moldova Armando Pascale, who praised the professionalism and contribution of Moldovan military in the KFOR mission and wished them success in fulfilling their mandate.

At the same time, Head of the NATO Liaison Office in Moldova Agne Gleveckaite underlined the importance of cooperation and interoperability among the contingents participating in the KFOR operation, noting the professionalism and responsibility of the Moldovan military.

The 25th contingent includes combat engineers, signal personnel, infantry troops, drivers and medics. Throughout the six-month mission, they will carry out security and protection activities for military facilities, as well as patrol missions.

The Moldovan soldiers will be stationed at the “Camp Villaggio Italia” military base in Peć, Kosovo, and will operate within the Regional Command-West.

Moldova has been participating in the KFOR operation for more than 12 years, contributing to international efforts to maintain peace and security in the Kosovo region.