From July 15-17, the Commanding General of the North Carolina Army & Air National Guard, Major General Greg Lusk, visited Moldova as part of the ongoing bilateral relationship between Moldova and North Carolina. In a meeting with Acting Minister of Defense Viorel Cibotaru, General Lusk emphasized how the North Carolina National Guard could continue to assist Moldova to develop its military, cyber security, peacekeeping, and medical capabilities, IPN reports.

In a press release, the U.S. Embassy says Acting Minister Cibotaru expressed gratitude for the bilateral cooperation and specifically for the transfer of High Mobility Multi-wheeled Vehicles, or Humvees, which helped increase the Moldovan National Army’s ability to contribute to international missions.

During his visit, General Lusk also met with the Commanding General of the Moldovan Armed Forces Brigadier General Igor Gorgan and several unit commanders of the Moldovan Army. He also traveled to Balti to observe a bilateral military exercise with the Moldovan Army and soldiers from the North Carolina National Guard.

Since 1995, Americans have provided free dental care to underprivileged children in Moldova and donated tens of thousands of dollars in humanitarian aid through the North Carolina State Partnership Program. The North Carolina National Guard has also provided training and technical assistance to Moldova's military, helping Moldova’s 22nd Battalion meet international peacekeeping standards.