NATO’s relations with the Republic of Moldova

NATO and the Republic of Moldova actively cooperate on democratic, institutional and defence reforms, and have developed practical cooperation in many other areas. The country’s Individual Partnership Action Plan (IPAP) lays out its programme of cooperation with NATO.

Moldova is seeking to draw closer to Euro-Atlantic standards and institutions. The extent of NATO-Moldova cooperation ultimately depends on the country’s willingness to continue its democratic reform process and strengthen its existing democratic institutions.

How does cooperation work in practice?

Areas of cooperation, reform plans and political dialogue processes are detailed in the Republic of Moldova’s Individual Partnership Action Plan (IPAP), which is jointly agreed with NATO for a two-year period. Key areas of cooperation include the consolidation of full democratic control of the armed forces, defence planning and budgeting.

Beyond supporting reform, another key objective of NATO’s cooperation with Moldova is to develop the ability of the 22nd Peacekeeping Battalion’s forces to work together with forces from NATO countries, especially in crisis-management and peacekeeping operations, and to develop a new training programme for the armed forces.

How did relations with the Republic of Moldova evolve?

NATO relations with the Republic of Moldova date back to 1992, when the country joined the North Atlantic Cooperation Council (renamed the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council in 1997). Relations expanded when Moldova joined the Partnership for Peace programme in 1994. The focus on supporting the country’s domestic reform process has intensified since its first Individual Partnership Action Plan with NATO was agreed in 2006.

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