Neutrality preserved as Moldova pivots to high-tech security cooperation with Ukraine
The Moldovan Parliament’s Foreign Policy Commission approved a consultative advisory on February 11 to launch negotiations for a new bilateral agreement with Ukraine. This framework aims to update the 1993 military-technical cooperation treaty to reflect modern security challenges.
The updated document prioritizes technological exchange and innovation while strictly upholding Moldova's constitutional neutrality. Doina Gherman, Chair of the Foreign Policy Commission, emphasized that the pact focuses on research, cybersecurity, and logistics rather than offensive capabilities.
Focus on dual-use technology
The agreement facilitates the development of technologies with civilian applications, such as drones for border surveillance, traffic management, and agricultural monitoring. A key objective is to foster local production within Moldova, reducing the country's reliance on foreign imports.
"This version refers strictly to cooperation in fields like innovation and the use of modern technology to protect critical infrastructure and improve public services," Gherman stated during the session.
Safeguarding constitutional neutrality
To address regional sensitivities, the document includes explicit guarantees that no activities will contribute to military actions or the deployment of foreign troops. It strictly prohibits Moldova’s involvement in offensive operations, ensuring the partnership remains within a defensive and technical scope.
The Ministry of Defense currently maintains over 120 bilateral international treaties. Similar updates to security frameworks have recently been completed with other strategic partners, including Romania, Germany, and France.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
