President Nicusor Dan said on Friday in Brussels that requested assistance to strengthen security in the Black Sea until the equipment ordered through the SAFE programme is delivered to Romania, adding that France has already offered to help with the necessary equipment.

'We discussed the security situation, Ukraine and hybrid warfare, including its impact on neighbouring countries, among them Romania. There was also a discussion about the recent events in the Black Sea. Just as we did nearly a year ago, when we faced problems along the Danube border with drones diverted from Ukraine, we requested support until the equipment we ordered through SAFE arrives in Romania. We have already held talks, or our colleagues have held discussions with France's technical team, which has offered to help us with the necessary equipment and to better understand the needs we have in the Black Sea area,' President Dan said at the end of the European Council meeting.

Asked how security in the Black Sea region could be strengthened, the head of state drew a parallel with previous drone-related security challenges along the Danube.

'Again, I believe it is important to compare what happened a few months ago with aerial drones on the Danube and what is happening now with aerial and naval drones in the Black Sea. At that time, we turned to our partners, exactly as we are doing now, and told them: 'We have ordered military equipment through SAFE, but it will arrive in one and a half, two, or two and a half years, according to the contracts we have signed. Please help us.' Six countries helped us: the United States, France, Italy, Spain, Slovakia and Portugal.

'We are now in exactly the same situation. There is a threat that did not exist last year, affecting ships operating near our coastline. We have made the same request and, within 24 hours, France has already responded, because we have a very good bilateral relationship. I am convinced that other allies will respond as well. There are always new challenges. Fortunately, Romania enjoys a good and trustworthy image and has strong, reliable relations with its allies. In situations of need, we receive support from them. And, of course, there is the SAFE programme, which, once the contracts are fulfilled, will provide permanent and definitive protection in the Black Sea,' President Nicusor Dan explained. AGERPRES (RO - writing by: Dana Piciu; EN - writing by: Simona Klodnischi)