The soldiers of the 17th contingent of the National Army that took part in the KFOR peacekeeping mission in Kosovo returned to Moldova. They were welcomed by Minister of Defense Anatol Nosatyi, ambassadors and comrades through an official ceremony, IPN reports.

The contingent’s commander, Major Vadim Bîrca, said that the Moldovan service members successfully fulfilled their duties, being involved in operations to escort, patrol, protect military facilities and historical buildings that are part of the UNESCO heritage and to explore the security zone. They worked professionally alongside their comrades.

Italy’s Ambassador to Moldova Lorenzo Tomassoni expressed his gratitude for the Moldovan soldiers’ contribution to the peacekeeping process in a turbulent period. “I’m delighted and honored to be here today to celebrate your return home. You responsibly fulfilled your tasks, especially when the situation was tenser. The Republic of Moldova is not alone. The EU stands by you. Together we are stronger,” stated the diplomat.

U.S. Ambassador in Chisinau Kent D. Logsdon thanked the Moldovan soldiers for their contribution to achieving the primordial desideratum of time. “I’m happy to be again here to tell you: Welcome Home! Your mission became more difficult as new circumstances appeared. You made a considerable contribution to regional security,” noted Kent D. Logsdon.

Minister of Defense Anatol Nosatyi underlined the courage and devotion of the service members. “Even during these difficult moments experienced by the KFOR mission, you coped with the changes and didn’t allow the situation to escalate and lead to victims among the civilian population. It is your merit and the merit of the support you enjoyed,” said the official.

The peacekeeping mission in Kosovo followed the NATO peacekeeping operation launched in 1999. The Republic of Moldova deployed the first peacekeeping contingent to Kosovo on March 8, 2014. Each contingent serves a six-month term.