European Council president Antonio Costa said on Thursday, September 3, after a meeting with Romanian president Nicu\u015for Dan in Bucharest, that the latest violations of Romania\u2019s airspace, as well as incidents involving maritime drones, are deeply concerning.<\/p>\n
Costa noted that Romania\u2019s security also means Europe\u2019s security, while collective security is closely linked to the security of the eastern border, including the Black Sea.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe will continue to stand firmly with Romania, because we understand that the security of Romania is Europe\u2019s security as well. Our unity in supporting Ukraine will not be broken by Russia’s attempts to intimidate us or divide us. Here, let me commend Romania\u2019s steadfast support for Ukraine. We must continue to work united for a just and lasting peace,\u201d Costa said, according to the official press release.<\/p>\n
The European Council president added that he was grateful for Romania\u2019s support for the Republic of Moldova, as well as for the assistance provided to Ukraine.<\/p>\n
\u201cEach enlargement has made Europe stronger politically and economically. It is one of Europe\u2019s most important geopolitical investments. It is an investment in our security, stability and prosperity. What applied to enlargements in the past also applies to the Western Balkans, Ukraine and, of course, Moldova,\u201d Antonio Costa further said.<\/p>\n
According to president Nicu\u015for Dan, Costa is touring European capitals in preparation for the European Council in October. The main subject of the Council, he added, will be the negotiation of the European Union\u2019s future 2028-2034 budget.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe had an in-depth discussion, especially on this subject. Romania has defined a large part of its position within the position of the Friends of Cohesion group,\u201d he said, referencing the 17 European states that oppose cuts to the EU\u2019s Cohesion Policy fund.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe want an ambitious European Union budget. We want substantial amounts for the cohesion chapter and the agriculture chapter, precisely to close the gaps between citizens of different European countries. We are very interested in the competitiveness pillar. Here again, we are talking about reducing, or targeting a reduction in, the gap between European countries, and we want companies from less developed European countries, such as Romania, to be able to access competitiveness funds,\u201d president Dan said.<\/p>\n
The Romanian head of state noted that compromises must be made regarding the EU budget. \u201cWe also discussed, in preparation for the October Council, the European Union enlargement process and, of course, our interest in ensuring that the accession process of the Republic of Moldova continues at a sustained pace,\u201d Nicu\u015for Dan further said.<\/p>\n