Romania: 20 Years in NATO, Vows Aid to Ukraine
Romanian President Klaus Iohannis spoke at a ceremony celebrating 20 years since Romania's accession to the North Atlantic Alliance.
During the event, he reaffirmed Romania's commitment to providing multidimensional political and practical support to Ukraine.
A key component of this assistance will be the training of Ukrainian military personnel, including future fighter pilots for F-16 aircraft, at the recently inaugurated European F-16 Training Center located at Fetești Air Base. The centre, established in November 2023, is designed to train pilots from Romania, other NATO member states, and Ukraine.
President Iohannis also emphasised the importance of continued cooperation within the European Union. Romania will work together with its EU partners to support the European aspirations of both Ukraine and Moldova. Additionally, Romania remains a strong advocate for significant assistance to Ukraine across all sectors.
The President stressed the importance of the transatlantic link and called for intensified collaboration between NATO and the EU. He underscored the value of a spirit of combined efforts and mutual benefit in strengthening Euro-Atlantic security.
Romania officially joined NATO on March 29, 2004, by depositing the instruments of ratification with the US State Department. This was followed by the ceremonial raising of the Romanian flag at NATO headquarters on April 2, 2004.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
