Romanian American Cooperation

The Romanian Foreign Minister, Bogdan Aurescu, and the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, had a telephone conversation on topics of priority interest for the bilateral Strategic Partnership, in the context of Russia's war against Ukraine and efforts to combat its effects. The dialogue also took place in preparation for the eighth round of the Strategic Dialogue between Romania and the USA, which will take place in March, in Bucharest. In the context of the one-year anniversary of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, they discussed its profound global effects, as well as joint efforts to counter them. The head of the Romanian diplomacy made a review of the very comprehensive and multidimensional aid granted to that state by Romania since the beginning of the war.

In turn, the US Secretary of State particularly thanked Minister Aurescu for the concrete,  substantial and essential support given by Romania to Ukraine. In terms of regional security, the two officials highlighted the importance of continuing the coherent and consistent strengthening of NATO's Eastern Flank, and Bogdan Aurescu conveyed his appreciation for the US commitment to the defense of the entire Allied territory, including in the Black Sea region and in Romania, expressed also on the occasion of the Bucharest 9 summit in Warsaw. The two heads of diplomacy also addressed opportunities for strengthening resilience in the Black Sea region through a strategic approach that would ensure, in a sustainable manner, the free, safe and prosperous character of the Black Sea and strengthen its status as a key commercial and energy route.

On the other hand, Bogdan Aurescu emphasized the major impact that Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine has on the Republic of Moldova and reaffirmed "Romania's firm, continuous and unconditional support  for the Republic of Moldova, for strengthening its resilience and security and for its European journey'. At the same time, he reiterated the key importance of Romania's inclusion in the US Visa Waiver Program. 

Against the background of security challenges in the region, Romania wants to acquire a battalion of American Abrams tanks, which usually has 54 such armored vehicles. The decision will be subject to Parliament's approval. Military experts consider this third-generation tank to be extremely effective. Its price starts at 10 million dollars. Representatives of the Romanian Foreign Ministry have also spoken about procurement in the naval field. Also, it is estimated that all F-16 aircraft will be delivered in 2024, after the contract for the purchase of 32 such aircraft from Norway was signed last year. Currently, the Romanian Air Force has 17 F-16 aircraft, bought from Portugal and modernized with the help of the USA, as well as older MIG21 LanceR aircraft of Soviet origin. (MI)