Strengthening border security, countering organised crime and illegal migration: the Ministers of Internal Affairs of Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova agree on joint actions
Today, February 20, Daniella Misail-Nichitin, the Minister of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Moldova, has paid an official visit to Ukraine.
The official Chisinau delegation was also comprised of Viorel Cernăuțeanu, the Head of the General Inspectorate of Police, and Ruslan Galusca, the Head of the General Inspectorate of Border Police.
The Ukrainian delegation was represented by Ivan Vyhivskyi, the Head of the National Police, and Serhii Deineko, the Head of the State Border Guard Service.
“I am pleased to welcome the Minister of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Moldova to Ukraine. This visit is an important sign of support for our people in a difficult time, as well as an excellent opportunity to deepen cooperation between our agencies. The common challenges we face require unity and coordinated action. Security issues, exchange of experience and cooperation in law enforcement are on the agenda. I believe that this meeting will be fruitful for us", – said the Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine, addressing his international colleagues.
First, the parties inspected the Palanca-Maiaky-Udobne border crossing point and discussed the current situation on the Ukrainian-Moldovan border and ideas for its improvement.
In particular, Ihor Klymenko, the Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine, noted that joint patrolling and the installation of additional CCTV cameras would reduce the risks of illegal migration and help to strengthen border security in line with current conditions.
“I would like to express my gratitude for the opportunity to be here. This is an important and anticipated meeting, and we are happy to be in Ukraine. I want to assure you of our solidarity with your people. We will continue to provide you with comprehensive support in line with international standards. We pay special attention to security issues. Joint efforts to strengthen the border and fight crime are our priorities”, – said Daniella Misail-Nichitin, the Minister of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Moldova.
The participants also visited the Situation Centre of the State Emergency Service in the city of Odesa, where, in addition to delivering the round-the-clock monitoring of the situation and prompt response to various emergencies, the experts forecast future challenges.
The Ministers of Internal Affairs of Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova visited one of the districts of the city that was recently attacked by hostile drones, leaving more than 90,000 people without electricity and about 80,000 without heating in the first day after the attack. Emergency work is still underway at the site of the attack, and an Invincibility Point is operating nearby, where victims can receive the necessary assistance, warmth and psychological support.
“We strongly condemn russia’s attacks on Ukraine's civilian infrastructure. I want to assure you that we will make every effort to help rebuild your country. Today, the State Emergency Service and the National Police are under a huge burden. They are working tirelessly, and their dedication is truly impressive”, – said Daniella Misail-Nichitin
As a part of the official visit, the delegation of the Republic of Moldova, headed by the Minister of Internal Affairs, visited Odesa State University of Internal Affairs, where they were able to get acquainted with the work of the educational institution and the conditions for training law enforcement specialists. In particular, the dean of the university, Viacheslav Davydenko, showed the partners specialised classrooms for the identification of explosive devices and first aid.
“Law enforcement training is an important stage. Many of our police officers not only protect public order, but also repel enemy attacks at the frontline. Today's conditions have forced the police to perform a wider range of functions. Today's challenges require a high level of training, adaptation to new conditions and quick response to the situation. It is important that they have all the necessary skills and knowledge to work effectively both in peacetime and in wartime”, – said Ivan Vyhivskyi, the Head of the National Police of Ukraine.
During the roundtable, the parties discussed a number of other issues related to migration policy, measures to counter crime, and support for Ukraine in the face of russian full-scale invasion.
Ihor Klymenko ceased the occasion to express gratitude to the Republic of Moldova for the temporary asylum for the Ukrainian citizens who were forced to leave the territory due to the invasion of the russian army.
“Our cooperation and exchange of information is pivotal, as it contributes to improving the security situation both in Ukraine and in the EU”, – the Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine said, addressing the international partners.
Following the meeting, the Ministers of Internal Affairs of Ukraine and Moldova signed a Memorandum of Cooperation in the field of corruption prevention.
Both parties agreed on continuing enhancing efforts aimed at improving the procedures for border control and strengthening law enforcement cooperation.
The meeting was an important milestone in the development of relations between the two countries and confirmed Ukraine's and Moldova's desire to deepen their security partnership.
Communications Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine
