Romanian-Israeli Governmental Ties
A joint Romanian-Israeli cabinet meeting was held in Jerusalem
Roxana Vasile, 25.06.2014, 14:01
The Romanian and Israeli governments plan to expand cooperation in the areas of foreign affairs, defence, security, economy and culture. This was the conclusion of a joint cabinet meeting chaired on Tuesday in Jerusalem by prime ministers Victor Ponta and Benjamin Netanyahu. The Romanian prime minister said 14 bilateral agreements were signed by the two cabinets in the fields of environmental protection, technology and research. One such agreement also refers to the recruitment of Romanian building workers.
Victor Ponta: “One thousand Romanian workers will have access to the Israeli labour market, in very good conditions, as soon as the agreement comes into effect.” Romania and Israel will also work together to develop Romanian production facilities in the aeronautic and defence industry, as well as the energy, chemical, petrochemical, logistics, infrastructure and IT sectors. The economy minister Constantin Nita talked about the opportunities for joint development projects:
Constantin Nita: “We are particularly interested in the aeronautic sector, given that Israel has good experience in this field. Romania also has a few companies with tradition in this area, such as Romaero, Avioane Craiova and IAR Ghimbav, which can develop a number of projects together with Israeli companies. Romania also provides many opportunities for unconventional and renewable energy projects.”
The Romanian culture minister Kelemen Hunor talked about the plans for cultural cooperation:
Kelemen Hunor: “Around 50 books have been translated from Hebrew into Romanian, but unfortunately not many Romanian books have been translated into Hebrew. There is good collaboration with Israel in the fields of theatre, dance and the performing arts. We have also signed an agreement to encourage cinematographic production at a time when the Romanian and Israeli film industries have seen notable achievements.”
The Romanian and Israeli cabinets have also reiterated their commitment to the stability of the region and a peaceful solution of conflicts. Prime minister Victor Ponta assured his counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu of his country’s support for finding ways to establish dialogue and create a climate of security and peace in the Middle East. Romania and Israel will also work together to combat any form of anti-Semitism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and intolerance.
