Security begins with preparedness: better-protected borders, rapid exchange of information, professionals equipped to address new forms of crime, and emergency services capable of responding when every minute counts.
These priorities were at the center of meetings held in France between the Minister for Internal Affairs, Daniella Misail-Nichitin and representatives of the French National Assembly, the French Senate and the French Development Agency.
During her working visit to Paris, the Minister of Internal Affairs presented the progress made by the Republic of Moldova in strengthening its capacity to meet the commitments undertaken in the EU accession process, including progress in implementing the interim benchmarks under Chapter 24 ‘Justice, Freedom and Security’.
The results achieved so far and the next steps in the accession process were discussed during the meeting with Pieyre-Alexandre Anglade, Chair of the Committee on European Affairs of the French National Assembly. The dialogue reaffirmed France’s strong political support for Moldova’s European path and for the continuation of reforms aimed at bringing the country’s security, freedom and justice standards closer to those of the European Union.
The security challenges facing Moldova increasingly extend beyond national borders, while their consequences are felt directly by people and their families. Strengthening the state’s ability to anticipate threats, prevent risks and respond rapidly is therefore becoming an essential component of the country’s day-to-day security and resilience.
This dimension of security was addressed during the meeting with Catherine Dumas, Vice-Chair of the French Senate’s Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and the Armed Forces. The Minister outlined the impact of the war in Ukraine on the security environment of the Republic of Moldova, the measures taken by state institutions to strengthen response capacities, and the support provided to Ukraine.
The discussions also addressed the next stage of European integration, in which strengthening of Moldova’s security goes hand in hand with its gradual integration into the European security area. For the Ministry of Internal Affairs, this means modernising border management, ensuring the interoperability of national information systems with those of the EU, and gradually preparing for the implementation of the Schengen acquis, in accordance with the Action Plan.
The aim of these reforms is clear: a Republic of Moldova that is more closely integrated into European security mechanisms and better equipped to protect its citizens. Stronger institutional capacities will enable authorities to verify and use information more quickly, cooperate more effectively with European partners, identify risks at an earlier stage, and respond more rapidly when people’s safety or lives are at risk.
During the meeting with Cyrille Bellier, Director of the Europe, Middle East and Asia Department at the French Development Agency, the Minister discussed strengthening Moldova’s resilience and modernising its civil protection system.
The working visit to France strengthens a partnership that links Moldova’s security to its European path: more secure borders, better-prepared institutions, stronger cooperation against crime and modern emergency response capacities.
France remains a key partner in supporting Moldova in turning these priorities into tangible results for the protection of citizens and the strengthening of security in the country and the region.
The visit was supported by the “Support for EU Integration” project, funded by the German Federal Foreign Office and implemented by GIZ Moldova.
