By Aysu Bicer
LONDON (AA) - The UK has enhanced its cooperation with Moldova by signing a new readmissions agreement aimed at bolstering UK border security, according to an official statement on Wednesday.
The agreement, signed by Foreign Secretary David Lammy during his visit to the capital Chisinau, ensures the swift identification and removal of Moldovan nationals who have no legal right to remain in the UK.
The pact comes as the UK reports a significant rise in overall deportations, with more than 9,400 individuals returned since the current government took office in July.
Notably, enforced returns have risen by 19%, and over 1,520 foreign national offenders have been removed since the last general election, the statement said.
The visit also saw the launch of a new UK-Moldova Defense and Security Partnership.
"Moldova is a vital security partner for the UK," Lammy said.
"To reinforce their resilience against Russian aggression and to keep British streets safe, I am deepening cooperation on irregular migration and launching a new Defense and Security Partnership. Despite unprecedented Kremlin interference, the people of Moldova have chosen freedom, democracy, and independence. A decision we must help them protect," he added.
During his visit, Lammy announced a £2 million ($2.5 million) uplift to support Moldova’s cybersecurity efforts.
In addition, the UK introduced a £600,000 project to enhance Moldova’s ability to analyze suspicious financial activity and tackle corruption.