OSCE representatives at the Ministry of Defense

CHISINAU, May 18, 2022 — Cooperation between the Ministry of Defense and the OSCE Mission to the Republic of Moldova in the context of the implementation of the complex program in the field of small arms and light weapons (SALW) was the subject of discussions between Minister Anatolie Nosatii and the Director of the OSCE Center for Conflict Prevention deputy of the OSCE Secretariat (OSCE Headquarters), Tuula Yrjola.

In this regard, Minister Nosatii appreciated the assistance provided by the organization in the field of management of weapons and ammunition stocks, security of ammunition depots, and professional retraining, but also informed the population about the danger of unexploded ordnance.

At the same time, the official thanked for the donations of laboratory equipment, analysis, and testing provided by the OSCE and Austria Mission to the National Army Weapons and Ammunition Center, support for the modernization of military depots in accordance with international standards, as well as for the series of specialized training of the staff responsible for this field.

In her turn, Tuula Yrjola mentioned that the organization she represents appreciates the collaboration with the Ministry of Defense and will continue to support the implementation of the projects initiated in the field of management of arms and ammunition stocks.

Other issues addressed by the two officials concerned the situation of regional security and the prospects for the development of new assistance projects within the OSCE. At the same time, OSCE representatives met with Secretary of State Valeriu Mija and paid a fact-finding visit to the National Army Weapons and Ammunition Center, a modernized and renovated structure with OSCE financial support.