Republic of Moldova Strengthens Preparedness for Cross-Border Biological Threats through EU CBRN CoE Project 100 Ukraine-Moldova Cross-Border Field Training Exercise
23/2519 Jun 2026 - 23 Jun 2026
The Republic of Moldova successfully conducted a Cross-Border Field Training Exercise (FTX) on biological threat preparedness and response at the Cahul Border Crossing Point on 18 June 2026 under the framework of the European Union CBRN Centres of Excellence (EU CBRN CoE) Initiative Project 100, “Strengthening Frontline Biosafety and Biosecurity Measures in South East and Eastern Europe”.
The exercise brought together representatives of the Border Police, Customs Service, National Agency for Public Health (ANSP), National Food Safety Agency (ANSA), Emergency Medical Services, and other national stakeholders responsible for preventing, detecting, and responding to biological threats at points of entry.
Implemented by the Science and Technology Center in Ukraine (STCU) and funded by the European Union, Project 100 supports partner countries in strengthening frontline biosafety and biosecurity capacities through the development of operational procedures, specialized training, and field exercises.
The Cahul exercise simulated the detection and management of a traveler suspected of carrying a communicable disease of international public health concern. Participants tested interagency notification procedures, risk communication mechanisms, traveler isolation measures, emergency medical response, epidemiological investigation, sampling procedures, and cross-border information sharing.
A key objective of the exercise was to validate the practical implementation of the newly adopted Joint Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) applied at State Border Crossing Points for the Prevention and Response to Biological Threats, signed by the Border Police, Customs Service, National Agency for Public Health, and National Food Safety Agency on 3 June 2026. The exercise provided the first opportunity to test the SOP in a realistic operational environment.
The activity demonstrated effective cooperation between frontline and supporting agencies, timely information exchange, and coordinated decision-making in response to a potential biological incident. Participants successfully activated notification chains, implemented biosafety measures, and applied established response procedures in accordance with their institutional responsibilities.
The exercise also provided an opportunity to identify lessons learned and areas for further improvement, including strengthening isolation infrastructure at border crossing points, enhancing decontamination procedures, and continuing joint interagency training activities.
The Cahul FTX represents another important milestone in Moldova’s efforts to strengthen national preparedness and resilience against biological threats. It also contributes to the implementation of a One Health approach by promoting cooperation among public health, border security, food safety, customs, and emergency response authorities.
Commenting on the exercise, representatives of participating institutions highlighted the value of practical interagency cooperation and the importance of testing procedures under realistic operational conditions.
Project 100 will continue supporting Moldova and other partner countries of the South East and Eastern Europe region in strengthening frontline biosafety and biosecurity capacities through tailored training programs, institutional capacity building, SOP development, and regional and cross-border exercises.
STCU, together with the EU, extends its appreciation to all participants, presenters, and organizers who contributed to the success of these events. Their engagement and expertise were vital in achieving the shared mission of a safer, more secure region. This initiative underscores the EU’s and STCU's dedication to strengthening BS&S measures in the SEEE region and fostering international collaboration to mitigate biological threats effectively.