CHISINAU. Feb 16 (Interfax) - Moldova is not giving up its neutrality, but its defense capability needs to be strengthened, Dorin Recean, a candidate for the post of Moldova's prime minister, said.
"Neutrality is a false narrative. Moldova needs to strengthen defense. Neural status is an instrument of foreign policy, which may not work in the near future. Therefore, we need to consolidate our defense capabilities," Recean said in the parliament while answering a question from opposition members about the possibility of achieving international recognition of Moldova's neutrality.
He called on opposition parliamentarians "not to confuse neutrality and defense, the country's security."
"Neutrality will not ensure our security in case of aggression [...] If we don't strengthen our defense, what will we do if an aggressor comes, pack our things and run? It's not normal. We should bear in mind that the [neutrality] instrument is limited. And we have used this false narrative, that if we are neutral we are automatically protected, for 30 years. It's not so at all," Recean said.
"We need to take into account the source of the problem, the need to protect the country in case of aggression, including hybrid and military," he said
"For that we need to build stable establishments, resilient society and have appropriate conditions for defense, for ensuring the country's security," Recean said.
Recean presented the priorities of the future government in the parliament on Thursday. The government's program is called "Prosperous, Safe, European Moldova."
Moldovan Prime Minister Natalia Gavrilita tendered her resignation last Friday. Under the constitution, the resignation of the prime minister leads to the resignation of the entire government. President Sandu has nominated her advisor Dorin Recean for prime minister.