ForMin Hurezeanu, in Vienna: Romania maintains commitment to protect EU's external borders

Romania maintains its commitment to protecting the EU's external borders, Foreign Minister Emil Hurezeanu said during a joint press conference with his Austrian counterpart, Beate Meinl-Reisinger.The head of Romanian diplomacy was on a working visit to the Austrian capital on Thursday and Friday."When I was in Vienna as Romania's ambassador, I found in you a strong supporter of my country's accession to the Schengen area," Hurezeanu addressed the Austrian minister.After entering the European free movement area, "Romania maintains its commitment to protecting the EU's external borders, combating illegal migration and fighting cross-border criminal networks," he pointed out.Emil Hurezeanu also highlighted bilateral economic collaboration."The Neptun Deep project, the largest offshore natural gas exploitation project in the Black Sea, is illustrative of Romanian-Austrian collaboration. It will have a positive impact on the energy market not only in Romania, but also at a regional level. At the same time, it will consolidate Romania's role as the largest natural gas producer in the EU," the minister said.Hurezeanu also appreciated Austria's support for our country's accession to the OECD."We appreciate Austria's support for this strategic priority of Romania's foreign policy. Moreover, I am convinced that Romania's accession will contribute to strengthening relations between our states, including from the perspective of investments and the business environment," he emphasized.According to the minister, at this moment, a process of redefining policy priorities is underway in the new international context."Both Romania and Austria are supporters of an efficient and strong Union, based on solidarity. I believe that the new context opens up new opportunities for cooperation for our states in promoting at European level objectives aimed at the Union's competitiveness, energy security and internal security," stated Emil Hurezeanu.The two ministers also discussed the consequences of the war of aggression launched by the Russian Federation against Ukraine."I have shown that a just and lasting peace in Ukraine can only be achieved by basing it on the UN Charter and the principles of international law. The recent, brutal attacks by Russian forces against Ukrainian civilian targets demonstrate that Russia does not want peace. I have shown that Romania will play an active role in the reconstruction process of Ukraine," Hurezeanu said.He also advocated for the EU's support for the Republic of Moldova, the support being "essential" for Chisinau's stability, democratic path and sustained pace of European integration.The Foreign Minister was also received by the Federal President of Austria, Alexander Van der Bellen, and by the Federal Chancellor Christian Stocker.Hurezeanu was awarded the "Grand Order of Honor in Silver, with Ribbon, for Merits to the Republic of Austria" by the federal president. (Photo:www.mae.ro)