About the Black Sea on Navy Day
A spectacular show was organized in the Romanian Black Sea Port of Constanta on Navy Day
Mihai Pelin, 16.08.2019, 13:15
On August 15th, some 15,000 people participated in the events organized in the Romanian Black Sea port of Constanta to celebrate Romanian Navy Day. Such events are held every year on the feast day of the Assumption of Mary, as the Virgin Mary is the protector of sailors. The Naval Forces staged an impressive show, which enjoyed the participation of dozens of ships, vessels and helicopters. The marine games, the concert given by the military orchestra and spectacular fireworks completed the picture.
More than 3,000 navy staff participated in Constanta in the largest exercise this year. People had the opportunity to admire the flag ships of the Romanian Naval Forces, Marasesti and King Ferdinand, but also the training ship Mircea, alongside vessels and aircraft from Italy, Ukraine and the US. The American destroyer USS Porter was at sea together with the other ships, and the Italian Eurofighter aircraft performed aerial combat sequences.
Romanias President Klaus Iohannis participated in the festivities and, in the speech he gave on the occasion, he recalled the strategic importance of the Black Sea Region, to both NATO and the EU. The head of state said that a comprehensive and coordinated action was needed at all levels, including the political one, to deter hostile acts in the area. The approach should also cover aspects relating to the economy, transport, energy and the environment., the president also said. In his opinion, the armed forces must be modernized and the problems concerning procurement must be resolved. Here is president Iohannis:
“Focus will be laid upon the naval, air defense and missile defense components. Important steps have been taken in this direction, but its not enough. We must act faster, in order to bridge all gaps and resolve inconsistencies in the procurement of equipment, which is extremely important for the missions that we are part of.”
In turn, the Romanian Defense Minister Gabriel Les warned that the security situation in the Black Sea forced NATO to adopt a proportional defense and deterrence posture. Gabriel Les:
“The Black Sea region, which, until not long ago, was an area of cooperation and cordial relations between the Riparian countries, is now unfortunately turning into a place characterized by tension, pressure, risks and threats, an area of frozen conflicts and of hybrid manifestations”.
Gabriel Les has also stated that Romania has actively participated in the implementation of the adaptation and safety measures decided at NATO level, measures that contribute to the collective defense of the eastern flank of the Alliance.
Nay Day festivities were also held in the ports of Mangalia, Tulcea, Braila and Galati.
