A new contingent of the Moldovan Army was deployed on Thursday, July 8, in the KFOR peacekeeping operation in Kosovo. The 15th military contingent includes 40 soldiers: a light infantry platoon and an intelligence team.

The official ceremony was attended by the interim Prime Minister, Aureliu Ciocoi, the Minister of Defense, Victor Gaiciuc, and several ambassadors.

“I am proud that the 15th contingent comes to confirm for the 15th time that Moldova does not only receive security but also can offer it and you are those that do it. Today you have become the military ambassadors of Moldova. I hope you will proudly carry the flag of our country during the mission,” stated the interim prime minister in his speech.

Ciocoi mentioned that although Moldova is fully committed to the international peacekeeping exercise in Kosovo, the Government will undertake to examine the opportunity to expand the list of missions in which our country should be involved, both within the UN and EU while maintaining the status of military neutrality.

As of 2014, 527 troops have completed their mission in the international peacekeeping operation in Kosovo, with the contingent rotating every 6 months.

The military contingent of the Moldovan Army is deployed at the base of Camp Villaggio Italy. Their mission is to provide security and safety in the area, patrol jointly with Italian forces, recognize mined land, or conduct climbing training. The KFOR military has the support of partner states – Italy and the United States.