Protecting natural heritage is part of the state's responsibility towards its citizens, it is a priority that I support and want to see reflected in public policy, President Nicusor Dan said on Wednesday in a message read out by presidential adviser for environmental affairs Stefania Georgiana Simion at the Climate Change Summit 2026 in Bucharest.

'Discussions about climate change concern how we build our economic future and the conditions in which we live. We need secure and affordable energy, investment and infrastructure prepared for climate change. At the same time, we must take into account the value of forests, waters and natural habitats on which our health and well-being depend. Protecting natural heritage is part of the state's responsibility towards its citizens. It is a priority that I support and want to see reflected in public policy. In this context, all initiatives and efforts based on cooperation between citizens, specialists and authorities deserve encouragement. The Bucharest-Ilfov Green Belt is one such project. Protecting the forests around the capital and restoring connections between natural areas have a direct impact on residents' quality of life. These issues must be incorporated into the planning of a metropolitan area that needs cleaner air, recreational spaces and better adaptation to rising temperatures,' the head of state's message said.

According to the same source, in the broader context of environmental protection, international recognition of the value of Rosia Montana must be accompanied by efforts to preserve the area and create opportunities for its residents.

'With regard to the situation in Rosia Montana, I support an approach to development that protects the landscape, makes the most of its cultural heritage and respects the people who live there. International recognition of the value of this area must be accompanied by efforts to preserve it and create opportunities for its residents. Rosia Montana is an example of the importance of public participation in decisions that could irreversibly affect communities. We are equally committed to initiatives to protect species such as bears, as well as other wild animals. At centres such as the one run by the Association for the Conservation of Biological Diversity in Petresti, professionals and volunteers care for injured and orphaned animals every day, with the aim of returning them to the wild whenever possible. Their work must be supported, including by establishing a stable support framework for rehabilitation centres. Romania needs the capacity to intervene, treat and care for wildlife in difficulty,' Dan conveyed.

The head of state also stressed that nature protection must be permanently integrated into every vision of development.

'Efforts to protect the area around Lake Techirghiol highlight the responsibility of institutions to safeguard the integrity of protected natural areas. I support the conservation of this area and consider it only right that the authorities in charge clarify how its protected status is reflected in decisions on land use and in all activities carried out in these areas. Citizens' trust in the Romanian state also depends on the consistency with which institutions fulfil their responsibilities. There are therefore many initiatives that require sustained attention. Those working to protect and preserve natural heritage know these places very well, monitor changes and flag problems that public authorities have a duty to take seriously. I want these experiences to be heard and used in developing public policy, and for dialogue with civil society to lead to decisions based on the strongest possible evidence. Nature protection must be permanently integrated into every vision of development. This means predictable rules, rigorous assessments and resources for conservation. It also means institutions that involve communities in decision-making and take responsibility for proper implementation,' Nicusor Dan said in his official message.

Representatives of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Food Banks Federation (FEBA) are meeting on Wednesday to discuss future infrastructure, economic competitiveness and climate resilience at the fifth edition of the Climate Change Summit, held at the Palace of Parliament in Bucharest. AGERPRES (RO - writing by: Daniel Badea; EN - writing by: Adina Panaitescu)