Importance of F-16 Training Center in Romania - emphasized at meeting of Contact Group for Ukraine

The importance of the F-16 Training Center in Romania, which supports the training of both Romanian pilots and those from allied and partner states, was highlighted during the meeting of the Contact Group for Ukraine, the Ministry of National Defense announced on Monday.

According to a release from the Ministry of National Defense sent to AGERPRES, Minister Ionut Mosteanu participated on Monday in the 29th meeting of the Contact Group for Ukraine, chaired by the British Secretary of Defense, John Healey, and the German Minister of Defense, Boris Pistorius, in an online format. The meeting was also attended by the US Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, and the NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte.

"During the meeting, the Romanian official reaffirmed Romania's constant support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, in accordance with international law and the fundamental principles of the rules-based international order. He highlighted Romania's substantial contributions to the international support effort, including by facilitating the training of Ukrainian military personnel within the EUMAM UA mission, as well as within the INTERFLEX mission, led by the United Kingdom," the release said.

According to the Ministry of Defense, the importance of the F-16 Training Center in Romania was emphasized, which supports both the training of Romanian pilots and those from allied and partner states, including Ukraine, contributing to increasing interoperability and strengthening the air defense posture on NATO's Eastern Flank.

"Romania remains committed to supporting Ukraine and defending the values that underpin European security. We will continue to contribute, together with our partners, as long as necessary, to support joint efforts for stability and deterrence on NATO's Eastern Flank," Ionut Mosteanu was quoted as saying by the release.

The meeting provided an important opportunity to strengthen cooperation with strategic partners and to effectively coordinate support to Ukraine through technical assistance, training and equipment deliveries, the Ministry of National Defence also indicated.

"The Contact Group for Ukraine remains an essential platform for international dialogue and coordination, aimed at supporting Ukraine's defense capacity and regional stability in the context of current security challenges," the release added.