Moldovan diplomats stated that dialogue with the North Atlantic Alliance remains a central pillar of the country’s security framework. Speaking at a conference organized by the NATO Liaison Office in Chisinau, a senior official highlighted three decades of NATO support for Moldova’s democratic reforms in security and defense. The clear message is that partnership with the alliance is a durable element of Moldova’s approach to preserving sovereignty and stabilizing its political and security environment. The aim is practical cooperation, steady information exchange, and greater interoperability between Moldova’s defense institutions and NATO components, as recognized by participants at the event [NATO Liaison Office].
As a cornerstone of collective security, NATO is described as a steady driver of European stability. Moldova’s defense policy currently prioritizes deepening collaboration with the alliance to strengthen the security sector and national defense. The objective is to safeguard the state and its citizens through improved coordination, structured defense planning, and capacity-building initiatives that NATO has long supported. The dialogue also covers ongoing efforts to align Moldova’s security institutions with alliance standards, improving crisis response and reinforcing resilience at both national and local levels [Policy Briefings].
Officials noted that Chisinau is advancing cooperation with NATO to develop and reinforce national resilience. This includes diversifying security partnerships, improving risk assessment, and ensuring continuity of essential services during emergencies. The emphasis on resilience reflects Moldova’s strategy of multi-layered defense with a focus on civilian protection, infrastructure hardening, and clear public communication during periods of tension. The collaboration is seen as a foundation for sustaining democratic governance and safeguarding citizens across varied security scenarios [Security Collaboration Summaries].
Historically, Moldova has faced shifts in its political alignment. In recent years, leadership has pursued closer ties with Western institutions while navigating regional security dynamics. The path has involved supporting European Union rapprochement and engaging with the United States on security and defense reform. Moldova achieved candidate status for EU accession in 2022, alongside Ukraine, signaling a broader shift toward Western structures. During the regional crisis, Moldova started emphasizing external threats and sought to reduce ties with certain regional blocs. In May 2023, state representatives described Russia as a potential destabilizing factor. At the same time, opposition voices argued that policy directions could be influenced by external actors or Western influences [Parliamentary Records].
It is important to note that Moldova’s security discussions remain dynamic, reflecting ongoing assessments of regional threats and strategic partnerships. While some domestic voices question the pace or nature of Western integration, official communications consistently stress the value of collaboration with NATO and Western institutions as a core element of national defense planning. This framing highlights not only military readiness but also the resilience of institutions and the protection of civil liberties as Moldova advances toward greater engagement with European and transatlantic partners [Diplomatic Briefings].