Berlin, 5 September 2023 (TDI): Romanian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Luminița Odobescu, embarked on an official visit to Berlin, reinforcing the enduring and crucial relationship between Romania and Germany.

During her diplomatic mission, Minister Odobescu engaged in crucial discussions with Annalena Baerbock, Germany’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Dr. Undine Ruge, Advisor for European Affairs to the German Federal Chancellor.

This diplomatic journey serves to solidify the profound bilateral relationship, marked by its strategic significance, exemplified by the burgeoning high-level dialogue. At the core of these discussions was a shared commitment to strengthen economic collaboration.

Minister Odobescu emphasized the importance of enhancing joint economic projects and tapping into German investment potential in various sectors of the Romanian economy. 

Both sides demonstrated their unity on diplomatic fronts, particularly concerning Russia’s aggressive actions in Ukraine. Romania and Germany stand together in solidarity with Ukraine.

The meetings also provided an opportunity to address combined efforts at the European and international levels to bolster support for Ukraine.

The Foreign Minister of Romania outlined Romania’s initiatives to facilitate Ukrainian grain exports, particularly to vulnerable regions worldwide.

Romania unambiguously condemned Russian attacks, which affected civilian infrastructure and Ukrainian ports along the Danube, close to the Romanian border.

The Romanian Ministry of National Defense activated enhanced vigilance measures without direct military threats to national territory or territorial waters.

Minister Odobescu passionately advocated for unwavering European backing for the Republic of Moldova, strengthening its resilience in the face of ongoing challenges, with a focus on the Moldova Support Platform initiated by Romania, Germany, and France.

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Furthermore, discussions included Romania’s pursuit of Schengen area accession. Germany affirmed its firm support for Romania in this endeavor.

Continued Engagement

The Ministers underlined their commitment to strengthening European unity and solidarity in a joint press conference.

They emphasized Romania’s valuable contribution to the European Union’s internal security and endorsed EU enlargement in Eastern Europe and the Western Balkans.

Minister Odobescu conveyed her heartfelt appreciation for Germany’s unwavering support. She also underscored Romania’s steadfast determination to mobilize unanimous support for Schengen area accession.

In conclusion, Minister Luminița Odobescu expressed her deep gratitude to Minister Annalena Baerbock for the warm welcome and constructive discussions.