ForMin Toiu:Ukraine's accession to the EU is, in itself, a security guarantee 

 Foreign Minister Oana Toiu stressed, on Monday, at the Foreign Affairs Council (FAC), that Ukraine's accession to the EU is, in itself, a security guarantee and called for urgent advancement of negotiations for this country and the Republic of Moldova, the Foreign Ministry (MAE) informs.The head of Romanian diplomacy reiterated, in the context in which future security guarantees will have a direct impact on the Black Sea region, the increased attention that needs to be paid to maritime security, improving interoperability and consolidating the allied posture on the Eastern Flank.She referred to Russia's assertive actions against member states, supported the adoption of a new "ambitious" package of sanctions against Russia, which would also target the activity of the phantom fleet, and reaffirmed Romania's commitment to initiatives to hold Moscow accountable."Amid Russia's continued aggression against Ukraine, but also in the context of peace talks, the Romanian Minister of Foreign Affairs stressed the importance of implementing the EU's security commitments for Ukraine and the need for solid guarantees to deter future Russian aggression. The Romanian minister welcomed the U.S.' role in supporting the peace process and the need for a permanent transatlantic dialogue," the MAE stressed.Oana Toiu also emphasized the importance of efforts to ensure stability in the Middle East.Regarding the situation in Syria, Minister Toiu expressed support for a peaceful and inclusive transition, underlining the importance of political dialogue and EU support for reconstruction efforts, including by providing support to civil society, limiting the influence of malign actors and engaging interested regional actors.The foreign minister highlighted Romania's continued contribution to efforts to strengthen institutions and good governance in the states of the region, including by sharing its own experience in the democratic transition process."As to the EU contribution, the Romanian minister recalled the importance of unhindered access for media representatives in the Gaza Strip and respect for their independence. The Minister of Foreign Affairs reiterated the need for consistent EU participation in the coordination structures and maintaining a balanced role in mediating the dialogue between the parties. Oana Toiu expressed support for the civilian missions EUBAM Rafah and EUPOL COPPS," the MAE informed.At the same time, the Romanian official reiterated the call for an increase in humanitarian support and its efficient distribution in Gaza.Regarding the situation in Lebanon, the ministers discussed ways to boost political dialogue, as well as increasing the EU's commitment in the CSDP dimension.The FAC agenda included Russia's aggression against Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East and China, with an emphasis on geostrategic and geoeconomic aspects. (Photo:https://www.mae.ro/)