PM Bolojan and EPP President Weber discuss Romania's support in relations with the EC on budget deficit

Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan discussed on Monday, at the Government headquarters, with President of the European People's Party (EPP) Manfred Weber, whom he also met earlier today at the National Liberal Party (PNL) headquarters.At the Executive headquarters, PM Bolojan underscored that Romania's partnership with the EPP, the largest European political family has an important role in strengthening the European project and in supporting the national interests in the dialogue with the EU institutions, a Government release mentioned."On the European policy component, there are two directions in which we will act in alignment: a strong Europe and a secure Europe on the Eastern Flank. At internal level, the discussions focused on supporting Romania in the relationship with the European Commission regarding the budget deficit and the implementation of projects in the PNRR [National Recovery and Resilience Plan], especially in essential areas such as hospitals and highways," Ilie Bolojan stated, according to the quoted source.In his turn, EPP President Manfred Weber highlighted the importance of European unity in face of current challenges, emphasizing the common security dimension.According to the Gov't release, Weber stated that a first element is represented by stability, followed by economic growth and security. He stated that there is an urgent need to build a European defence pillar and Europe's Eastern Shield is not solely the responsibility of Romania or the Baltic states, but a shared responsibility of all EU member states. He added that only together can a strong and secure European Union be ensured.   President Manfred Weber voiced his support for the measures initiated by Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan aimed at achieving budgetary balance.During a joint press conference held alongside Prime Minister Bolojan at the headquarters of the National Liberal Party (PNL), Weber said that many European countries are undertaking similar efforts.He underscored that the matters currently of concern to Romania are also of European relevance, notably budgetary and political stability.In many European countries, we are facing similar challenges. We are aware of the situation in France or my home country, Germany. But what the Romanian government is doing, seeking to balance the budget, is a common endeavour across the European Union. As politicians, we support this initiative and the way in which Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan is taking the necessary steps, Weber said.He further stressed that a functional state can only exist in the context of economic growth. With regard to the EU-US trade agreement, Weber noted that while it is not perfect, it represents the best outcome achievable under current circumstances.The EPP supports the result of the negotiations. We must open our economic borders to the rest of the world through trade agreements. Europe stands to gain greatly from trade. Therefore, in order to create jobs and stimulate economic growth, we must support this, he said.Weber also reaffirmed the EPP's support for a strong cohesion policy, intended to strengthen regional and local communities. In addition, he expressed support for farmers.Romanian farmers can count on the EPP to protect their interests and to ensure that citizens have access to sufficient food, he said.The EPP leader also advocated for a reduction in the bureaucratic burden imposed on businesses. In this context, he called on both left-wing and liberal politicians to back the European Commission's proposals, without diluting their essence.The Commission has proposed many initiatives aimed at reducing red tape, and now we must deliver on those, Weber said.He further stressed the importance of Europe possessing the capacity to defend itself.There is an urgent need for efforts and actions to build a European pillar of defence. (...) Defence of the European Union's eastern flank is not solely the responsibility of the Baltic states, Poland and Romania. It is a shared responsibility and necessity, including for other countries. Germany, France, Spain, and Italy must also contribute to building a strong eastern shield for the EU. It is a joint investment, the EPP leader affirmed.Weber also sought to send a message of support to the Republic of Moldova, underscoring the importance of the upcoming parliamentary elections.In recent years, Maia Sandu has provided a clear pro-European direction for the country. The referendum was unequivocally in favour of Europe. Now, ahead of the parliamentary elections, we can only offer our Moldovan partners our support for a clear European perspective, concluded Manfred Weber. (Photo:https://gov.ro/)