A Diehl Aviation factory producing components for the aeronautics industry was inaugurated on Wednesday in Almaj, Dolj County, within the Craiova metropolitan area.

The new production unit will manufacture parts for commercial passenger aircraft, supplying programmes run by major global aerospace manufacturers, including Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier and Embraer.

Craiova Mayor Lia Olguta Vasilescu said the investment confirms the region's growing appeal for high-value projects: 'The fact that a global leader in aircraft systems and components - a partner of Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier and Embraer - chose to invest here shows that Craiova and the entire region have become an attractive destination for high value-added investments. Craiova was selected for its strategic position, continuously developing transport infrastructure and well-trained workforce supported by our universities and high schools. Craiova International Airport, the Craiova - Pitesti Expressway and the future expressways to Targu Jiu and Calafat are major advantages for investors.'

According to the mayor, the factory will initially create up to 500 jobs, with staffing expected to increase as operations expand.

Dolj County Council president Cosmin Vasile said the investment demonstrates the county's appeal to major international companies:

'The County Council is a partner for the entire business environment. Our policy is to develop, attract new companies and create jobs. We will build a new industrial park - the largest project undertaken by a county authority in southern Romania - where we aim to bring important companies. I thank Diehl Aviation for the trust shown in Craiova. I am convinced this is only the beginning of a long-term partnership and that the investment will strengthen the city's position as one of Romania's key industrial and technological centres.'

Germany's ambassador to Romania, Angela Ganninger, also attended the ceremony, calling the factory opening a significant milestone for the region's economic and industrial development: 'I warmly congratulate the entire Diehl Aviation team and their Romanian partner, Global Vision. Your investment is proof of the strong economic ties between Germany and Romania, as well as the attractiveness of Craiova and Dolj County for German businesses. Robust infrastructure has been a key factor in attracting more German companies to Romania in recent years. Here, it includes access to major transport routes, proximity to Craiova International Airport, a variety of industrial parks and a skilled workforce from top regional universities. Germany and Romania are close political, cultural and economic partners, and the high level of trust between our countries is reflected at all levels.' AGERPRES (RO - writing by: Maria Mitrica; EN - writing by: Simona Klodnischi)