Acting President of Romania Ilie Bologian had a phone conversation with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, BTA reports.
During the conversation, Rutte thanked Romania for its contribution to allied security, welcomed the increase in its defense budget and reaffirmed NATO and the US commitment to collective defense and Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty, Agerpres reports, citing Bologian's office.
Bologian stressed that NATO remains the main guarantor of Romania's security, and Article 5 is the most effective means of deterring threats against the allies. He also emphasized the importance of transatlantic ties and the US military presence in Europe, which plays a key role in the stability of the continent.
“Romania continues to contribute to the security of NATO's Eastern Flank and supports the strengthening of stability in the Black Sea region. In this regard, our country allocates 2.5% of GDP to defense and is ready to increase investments in this sector“, the Romanian presidency said in a press release.
Regarding the war in Ukraine, Bologian stressed the need for a just and lasting peace, as well as continued support for Kiev.
The NATO Secretary General highly appreciated Romania's role as a stabilizing factor in the Black Sea region and the Eastern Flank, emphasizing that in the current security context, these efforts are even more important. He also reaffirmed NATO and the US commitment to collective defense and highlighted Washington's efforts to achieve lasting peace in Ukraine.
In conclusion, Rutte welcomed the increase in Romania's defense budget and stressed the need for other European allies to follow suit, the Romanian presidency said in a statement.