Romania Caucus in U.S. House of Representatives, relaunched

  The Romania-U.S. Friendship Group (Romania Caucus) in the U.S. House of Representatives was relaunched on Tuesday through an event organised by the United States Congress in collaboration with the Embassy of Romania in Washington.According to the Romanian Embassy in the U.S., the reception was attended by numerous influential members of Congress and marked the beginning of a new chapter in the 119th Congress, celebrating the enduring bilateral relationship.The new co-chairs of the Friendship Group, Mike Turner (Ohio) and Tom Suozzi (New York), opened the series of remarks by emphasising that the relaunch of the group is not only a celebration of the partnership, but also a promise for the future.They underlined that Romania is a reliable ally, and that the strategic partnership with the United States helps the country face global challenges through economic cooperation, security investments and the strengthening of democratic values. Both co-chairs expressed their commitment to deepening bilateral dialogue and creating new opportunities, showing that the Romania-U.S. Friendship Group aims to strengthen cooperation in key areas such as security and trade.Romania was praised for its status as a trusted U.S. ally, with particular recognition given to its essential contributions to Black Sea regional security. Members of Congress also condemned Russia's interference in Romania and the Republic of Moldova, including disinformation campaigns and propaganda efforts.In his speech, Ambassador Andrei Muraru noted that Romania and the United States enjoy an incredibly close Strategic Partnership, which this year celebrates its 28th anniversary.'We are working on a wide range of important issues - from security to economy and trade, defence, energy and people-to-people relations. Romanians hold overwhelming trust and attachment to the American friendship. We are determined to make every effort and seize opportunities that will continue to make our partnership richer and more vibrant than ever before,' said Ambassador Muraru, as quoted in a press release.Regarding the Visa Waiver Programme, the Romanian ambassador said that Romania is ready to offer the most advanced traveller information-sharing framework, using capabilities no other country in the programme has yet provided.