UK and Moldova Sign Defence, Security Partnership Agreement
The United Kingdom and Moldova launched a new defence and security partnership on Wednesday amid threats from Russia, the British government's official website reports.
The initiative was announced during a visit by UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy to the Moldovan capital Chisinau.
‘Today also saw the launch of a new defence and security partnership between the UK and Moldova, which builds on the extensive cooperation between the two countries and strengthens Moldova's resilience to external threats.
This partnership will increase support for Ukraine's sovereignty, security and stability, helping to strengthen national security at home in the face of Russian aggression,’ the statement said.
The UK Foreign Secretary pledged to work with President Maia Sandu to strengthen Moldova's resilience to Russian hybrid threats.
He will also offer UK support in the fight against corruption in the region.
‘Moldova is a vital security partner for the UK and that is why, to strengthen its resilience to Russian aggression and keep Britain's streets safe, I am deepening cooperation on illegal migration and launching a new defence and security partnership,’ Lammy said.
As part of the visit, a new readmission agreement was signed to strengthen international cooperation on illegal migration.
Earlier this month, Moldova's pro-European president, Maia Sandu, won the election after a tense vote marred by allegations of Russian interference.
This comes just two weeks after a referendum in which Moldovans narrowly voted in favour of the country's move towards the EU.