Regional security, with a focus on the situation in the Black Sea region amid the Russian Federation's war of aggression against Ukraine, was one of the topics addressed during the meeting between Romanian Minister of National Defence Angel Tilvar and Belgian Minister of Defence Theo Franken, Agerpres reports.
According to a Saturday press release of the Ministry of National Defence (MApN), the meeting took place on Friday at the 71st Air Base "General Emanoil Ionescu" in Campia Turzii.
'The meeting was a valuable opportunity to deepen bilateral dialogue and continue the consultations recently initiated within the framework of the EU and NATO defence ministers' meetings,' the MApN said.
The Romanian minister underscored the importance of strengthening NATO's defence posture on the eastern flank and ensuring security and stability in the Black Sea region, in the context of preparing for decisions to be adopted at the upcoming NATO Summit in The Hague, scheduled for June.
The agenda also included discussions on the White Paper on Defence Readiness 2030 and the new European financial instrument SAFE (Security Action for Europe), reflecting the shared interest in enhancing the EU's role in boosting resilience and defence capabilities at the European level.
'Regarding military cooperation, the Romanian side particularly appreciated Belgium's substantial contribution to the NATO Battle Group deployed in Romania under French command. Also highlighted was the first-time temporary deployment of a Belgian battalion in our country, as part of the multinational exercise Dacian Spring 25,' the press release also reads.
Angel Tilvar also expressed his appreciation for Belgium's participation with an observer in the MCM Black Sea Task Group, a structure deemed essential for ensuring safe navigation in the Black Sea, the press release further shows.
The two officials welcomed the excellent level of bilateral relations, expressing openness to identifying joint projects aimed at modernising and strengthening the capabilities of the Romanian Armed Forces, as well as enhancing interoperability and training between the two armies.
'An important point in the official talks was the reaffirmation of support for the Republic of Moldova in its European integration path, emphasising the importance of European coordination in strengthening the resilience and stability of that country and other partners in the EU's eastern neighborhood,' the MApN noted.
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