Moldovan PM meets U.S. National Security Advisor

Chisinau, 29 August /MOLDPRES/- Today Prime Minister Maia Sandu had a meeting with John Bolton, U.S. National Security Advisor. The sides exchanged views on recent economic developments and the policies promoted by the authorities to maintain stability in the country, ensure good governance, as well as issues on Moldova’s development at a time of utmost importance for our country and Eastern Europe, the government’s communication and protocol department has reported.

The premier noted the government’s determination in implementation of structural reforms, and expressed gratitude to the USA, a strategic partner for our country, which supported our efforts to restore democratic processes and protect human rights after a period when the Republic of Moldova was under an oligarchic regime, as a captured state. "We want the priority items on the government agenda, formulated based on the needs and expectations of citizens, namely combating high corruption, reducing poverty, creating opportunities for economic development, finding ways to diversify energy sources, should be further key elements of the bilateral cooperation agenda, and we rely on the American partners’ support in implementing critical reforms to transform Moldova into a truly democratic state”, the official said.

Another issue was related to strengthening and modernizing the security and defense sector, which has a direct impact on ensuring independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Moldova. US assistance in modernizing the security and defense sector reaches about 15 million dollars annually. "This year we will negotiate a new Individual Action Plan of the Moldova-NATO Partnership and move on to the second phase of the Defense Capacity Building Initiative for the Republic of Moldova, with US support in this regard being fundamental. Only in this way we can contribute to strengthening military capabilities and national security system, skillful in managing conventional and hybrid threats. Only in this way we can become a stable partner who not only consumes, but also offers security, ” Maia Sandu said.

For his part, John Bolton reconfirmed the US determination to continue working with our country in areas such as justice reform, fight against corruption and money laundering, bilateral strategic dialogue. "On behalf of the US Government, I assure you that you have all our support to fight corruption, an extremely important goal for potential investors and business partners in the United States. Your success in this field will have serious implications for Moldova and partnerships with other countries. The US strongly believes in the sovereignty and independence of Moldova and it is the decision of your country which future it will choose, without being influenced from outside, ” he said.

The officials also referred to the visit due to be paid by Sandu with government members. Maia Sandu was grateful for the openness and support shown by the American partners.