Transatlantic unity and European solidarity remain crucial for Romania, Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies Sorin Grindeanu stated on Monday at the opening of the Annual Meeting of Romanian Diplomacy (RADR).

According to him, Russian aggression, instability in the Middle East and the rise of authoritarian regimes can only be successfully countered through 'a real complementarity between the EU and NATO, the only real solution for ensuring European security.'

He underscored that, in these times marked by profound transformations on all fronts, the current discussions regarding the future of Europe and the world carry an unprecedented stake in recent years, and it's imperative for 'Romania's voice to be heard and listened to' in this dialogue.

'There is a great responsibility resting on your shoulders. You, who are in the front line of negotiations for promoting Romania's interests, play a decisive role in this goal. We are all aware that, for an efficient promotion of legitimate interests in this difficult geopolitical context, a clear-headed analysis and realistic internal clarification are needed firstly,' Grindeanu conveyed to the diplomats.

In his view, in the context of the aggression against Ukraine, the pressure over Russia, including through sanctions, must be maintained until the acceptance and enforcement of a lasting peace solution.

'Peace is our priority, of all of us, only peace will ensure the framework for the reconstruction we all wish to contribute to. This is why, on this occasion too, I welcome the demarches of President Trump to initiate peace negotiations. But, for a lasting peace, it is absolutely necessary that the negotiations reflect Europe's and Ukraine's interests, and the solutions be based on solid and irreversible security guarantees,' the Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies highlighted.

He underscored that it's vital for the Black Sea region to receive the necessary attention in the plans for the future security architecture of the European continent, on which Ukraine's destiny also depends.

Grindeanu also underlined the necessity that the emphasis be placed, in the dialogue with European and North Atlantic partners, on the accelerated development of Romania's transport infrastructure, at a pace that must be further maintained.

'In the dialogue with European and North Atlantic partners, we need to focus on the accelerated development in the past years of Romania's road infrastructure. This component must be a priority, but also an asset, because it brings benefits to all member states. However, it is extremely important that the pace imposed so far be maintained. As you know, important progresses have been made in maritime, river and air infrastructure. The Port of Constanta, the Danube ports, railways and Romanian airports are also vital components for the new security configuration of Europe,' Sorin Grindeanu explained.

According to him, ensuring a democratic, prosperous and safe neighborhood is the best path to one's own security.

'This is why, we are supporters of the European path of Ukraine, as well as of the states in the Western Balkans. In this context, the European integration of the Republic of Moldova continues to be a major objective of our foreign policy, both through the bilateral strategic Partnership and shared elements of language, culture and history,' Grindeanu stated.

He underscored the importance of attracting European funds, especially of those under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR), but also identifying new European funding instruments to continue investments in local communities and major infrastructure, as well as for economic development.

'The discussions with our partners must reflect Romania's role in the success of European integration enlargement policies, but also our determination to ensure that the interests of the Romanian citizens are defended. I voice my belief that these principles will be reflected in the talks regarding the future Multiannual Financial Framework where - do not forget - Romania has a major interest in terms of the Common Agricultural Policy. Romanian agriculture, Romanian farmers must continue to receive unequivocal support,' the Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies pointed out.

He also showed that only a real complementarity between the EU and NATO can truly guarantee European security.

'At the same time, I believe it is essential to shift from a reactive to a proactive approach at the level of European foreign policy. And the basis of this new approach must be an integrated industry. Romania must become in this logic an important actor in the European defence industry, and the boost of some recent projects in the area prove our concrete potential,' Grindeanu stated.

At the same time, he underscored that the transatlantic relation remains essential for the prosperity and defence of our country. Sorin Grindeanu reiterated the support for increased US military presence in Romania, as a relevant element in terms of signaling strength and solidarity in this new geopolitical configuration.

'We also want to increase other crucial aspects of the Strategic Partnership, such as: cooperation in the defence and security area, both at bilateral level and within NATO, cooperation in view of developing the energy sector, enhancing Romania's connectivity with the rest of the region and attracting US investments in projects of shared interest,' Grindeanu added.

The Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies mentioned that another significant objective of Romania is the accession to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), a genuine country project, but also a complex process which entails reforms and a significant legislative adaptation.

'The joint parliamentary committee for the OECD accession, made up of members of the Legislature from all the political groups plays a particularly important role in the success of this national effort. We will continue to work in a close dialogue with the Government and international partners in order to boost these demarches, with the clear goal of completing the accession in 2026,' Grindeanu stated.

According to him, the Chamber of Deputies will remain 'an active, predictable and responsible' partner in supporting Romania's foreign policy, one that is expected to deliver relevant results for Romania's interest in short, medium and long term. AGERPRES (RO - writing by: Daniel Florea; EN - writing by: Rodica State)