DefMin Dincu: Romania supports U.S. involvement in joint efforts for European defence consolidation

Romania supports the involvement of the United States of America in the joint efforts aimed at consolidating European defence, Romanian Defence Minister Vasile Dincu said on Thursday, at the U.S. Embassy in Bucharest at an event marking Memorial Day."We are in a turning point of history, in a turbulent and unpredictable security context, when a new challenge emerges in the rule-based international environment architecture. The Russian Federation's actions in Ukraine represent serious breeches in international law and international commitments also assumed by the Russian Federation, as well as in the territorial integrity of Ukraine, namely the inviolability of its borders. Romania condemns in the strongest terns the unjustified, brutal and deeply illegal aggression of Russia against Ukraine," the minister said.Dincu added that "the presence of U.S. forces in Romania has, beyond the security component, a very significant symbolic dimension. "Together with the Romanian military, the U.S. servicemen protect and defend the Euro-Atlantic values essentially defining our society. Democracy, human rights, rule of law and the right of each people to self-determination," Dincu said, highlighting that "the strategic partnership with the U.S. is essential for Romania's security."In his turn, U.S. Charge d'Affairs David Muniz underscored that the friendship and alliance the U.S. is enjoying today with the Romanians, who are loyal allies, have been based on their courage and sacrifice.From former belligerent entities to ideologically opposed entities, behind an Iron Curtain that was dividing the continent, we are now united by unwavering solidarity. Our veterans have brought us to this point. This day is devoted to them, said Muniz.He also spoke of the current security situation, saying that as war is making new damage on the continent, the U.S. and its allies have the privilege to have inherited the protection of unshaken courage and he underscored the need of having a strong and united transatlantic alliance, its efficient deterrence and its defence capacities.Muniz also said that confronted with the unjustified, illegal, barbarian invasion of Russia in Ukraine, the peaceful world is forced to remember there is no substitute for collective defence.The diplomat stressed that the alliance as a whole is stronger than its component parts alone. He added that Romania's huge contribution to NATO is very much appreciated, same as the individual actions of men and women in uniform. It is an honour to call them allies, said Muniz, taking into account that malign forces are trying to set back the world to the dark times of 80 years ago, it is very comforting to know that none of us is alone in fighting this challenge.  (Source photo:Public Diplomacy Office)