Strengthening the Strategic Partnership between Romania and the United States was the main topic of discussions on Tuesday between Internal Affairs Minister Marian Neacsu and US Ambassador to Bucharest Darryl Nirenberg.

'The meeting provided an opportunity for an in-depth exchange of views on current security developments, excellent bilateral cooperation and prospects for deepening it in areas of common interest, with both officials reaffirming the strategic nature of the relationship between Romania and the United States and its importance for regional security and stability,' according to a press release from the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MAI) sent to AGERPRES.

With 2027 marking the 30th anniversary of the Strategic Partnership, particular attention was paid to strengthening the relationship, including by expanding the areas and forms of cooperation with the US administration.

The relationship between the United States and Romania is based on shared interests and values, a firm commitment to the rule of law, the protection of human rights and religious freedoms, and a common vision of a secure and prosperous future.

'Particular emphasis was placed during the discussions on the opportunity to strengthen the economic pillar of relations between the two countries, focusing on energy, trade and US investment in Romania, which also contribute to enhanced security. The interior minister stressed that Romania contributes to regional security through a multidimensional approach combining its NATO defence commitments with investment in strategic infrastructure and the development of national energy resources,' the ministry said.

The Romanian official said the country's objective was to consolidate its position as a pillar of stability and security in the Black Sea region, a role that entails responsibility, strategic investment, cooperation with allies and partners, and a long-term vision for regional development.

In this context, the Black Sea should not be viewed solely in terms of security challenges, but also as an area of economic opportunities, strategic investment and European cooperation. The Neptun Deep project is a concrete example of how the Black Sea's economic potential can become a means of strengthening Romania's security and strategic relevance.

The Romanian minister called for closer cooperation in addressing emerging threats to regional security, particularly in the Black Sea area, amid an increase in drone attacks.

'The main areas of cooperation in internal affairs were reviewed, highlighting the fact that exchanges of expertise and ongoing dialogue at strategic, technical and operational levels have contributed significantly to strengthening Romania's capacity to respond to various security challenges,' the MAI press release said.

The importance of joint activities was also emphasised, particularly in combating cross-border organised crime, human trafficking and cybercrime, all of which are priority areas for the authorities in Washington and Bucharest.

In this context, the two sides reiterated their objective of closer cooperation, including enhanced information-sharing, to dismantle criminal networks whose activities, including those carried out on Romanian territory, endanger public safety. AGERPRES (RO - writing by: Daniel Alexandru Florea; EN - writing by: Simona Iacob)