The government has approved amendments to the Defence and Armed Forces Act. The changes will introduce training in Military Affairs and Defence at professional colleges. This training will be recognised as equivalent to the skills and qualifications of a non-commissioned officer (NCO) and placed on the same level as that of cadets in military academies.

Another amendment removes the current rule limiting the extension of a soldier’s service contract to three terms. Under the new system, both soldiers and officers will be able to renew their contracts until they reach the maximum service age of 57.

The reforms also improve the legal status of family members accompanying military personnel or civilian employees assigned to international organisations or initiatives abroad. If they reside with their relatives in the host country, they will now enjoy the same rights and protections as those provided under the Diplomatic Service Act.