Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu met with his Ukrainian counterpart Denys Shmyhal during the latter's visit to Bucharest on Friday 18 August. The two representatives discussed the aid provided by Romania to Ukraine and grain transit.
During the meeting, the two prime ministers signed a political statement on strengthening bilateral cooperation ensuring reliable transit of goods from Ukraine. Ciolacu and Shmyhal also initiated two agreements on the mutual recognition of educational documents and the opening of a new border crossing between the two countries, in Sighetu Marmatiei and Bila Cerkva.
The government and I will continue to provide full and consistent support to Ukraine. We are united against Russian military aggression and barbaric acts. This senseless conflict must end. We offer full support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. We will stand by Ukraine as long as necessary, until Ukraine wins," the Romanian prime minister said
The Ukrainian Prime Minister, in turn, said that his country is adhering to its goals of integration into the EU and NATO. Shmyhal expressed gratitude to Romania for its support, adding that Romania was the country that gave Ukraine a helping hand from the first days of the war.
"We expect the active participation of Romanian businessmen in the efforts to restore Ukraine. We are confident that we will find mutually beneficial projects," he said during a joint press statement at the Victoria Palace in Bucharest.
Meanwhile, Marcel Ciolacu also noted that Ukraine's struggle is "to protect our way of life and our basic values related to democracy and freedom." He argued that Ukraine's right to decide its own future must be defended and that a prosperous, democratic and free Ukraine is a strategic interest of Romania.
He also assured the Ukrainian Prime Minister that Romania will continue to facilitate the export of Ukrainian cereals to international markets. "We hope to transport over 60% of the total volume of grain exports from Ukraine through Romania. [...] We welcomed the decision from the discussion in Galati. We set an ambitious goal to double the volume of Ukrainian grain transit in Romania from two million tons per month to four million tons," said Ciolacu.
In addition, Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu asked for equal rights and freedoms for Romanians in Ukraine and for neighboring countries to recognize that the so-called "Moldovan" language does not exist. He reminded Šmyhal that the Republic of Moldova recently adopted a legal act recognizing Romanian as an official language. "Our demands are natural and reasonable," Ciolacu said.
The head of the Ukrainian government, in turn, explained: "We discussed improving the transport infrastructure destroyed by Russia and we will develop border infrastructure, roads and railways. We will expand and build new border crossings. We will simplify border control in these places and, where possible, we will have joint control , to facilitate the transit of goods. We will facilitate the transportation of Ukrainian products to Romanian ports. We will also strengthen cooperation in the Danube by using the existing port infrastructure as an investment in its development. Currently, Romania ranks third in facilitating transit from Ukraine."
"Thank you for supporting the peace formula of President Volodymyr Zelenskyi and for agreeing to the training of Ukrainian pilots and the establishment of a specialized center on Romanian territory. In addition, other Ukrainian military personnel are being trained in Romania, and we thank you for that," he added.
In a significant diplomatic move, the Prime Ministers of Romania and Ukraine met in Bucharest to discuss two urgent issues - grain transit and the protection of minority rights. The bilateral meeting, which was held in a cordial atmosphere, showed the determination of both nations to promote cooperation and solve respective regional problems.
Grain transit: a key economic focus
The discussion on grain transit is of prime importance for both Romania and Ukraine due to their significant agricultural sectors. Leaders stressed the need to improve cross-border transport infrastructure to facilitate smooth movement of grains. By streamlining trade routes and border procedures, nations aim to strengthen trade ties and optimize the transit of vital agricultural commodities.
This cooperative approach is expected to not only strengthen economic relations but also contribute to food security in the region. Optimizing grain transit will further promote the utilization of each nation's agricultural potential and ensure a stable and efficient supply of grain to meet domestic and international demand.
Strengthening Minority Rights: A Shared Commitment
The second focal point of the discussions revolved around the protection of minority rights. Both Prime Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to promote the rights and dignity of minority communities in their countries. Leaders recognized that promoting an inclusive society requires protecting the cultural, linguistic and religious identity of all citizens, regardless of their origins.
Through open dialogue and cooperation, Romania and Ukraine intend to strengthen their commitments to international human rights standards. By fostering an environment of tolerance and respect, both nations strive to set an example for harmonious coexistence and emphasize that diversity is a source of strength rather than division.
Building stronger bilateral relations
The meeting in Bucharest underlines the desire of Romania and Ukraine to strengthen their bilateral relations on various fronts. The discussions, marked by a spirit of cooperation, reflect a shared effort to use their geographical proximity to mutual benefit. The leaders recognized the potential for strengthening economic ties, cultural exchanges and people-to-people relations that can contribute to the prosperity of both nations.
At the end of the meeting, the heads of government expressed optimism about the positive results that these negotiations will bring. The agreements reached are expected to pave the way for constructive cooperation that will contribute not only to the economic growth of both nations, but also to the stability and harmony of the region as a whole.
Joint negotiations between the Prime Ministers of Romania and Ukraine in Bucharest are proof of the determination of both nations to solve critical regional problems. By focusing on optimizing grain transportation and protecting minority rights, the leaders demonstrated their commitment to promoting economic growth, social inclusion and diplomatic cooperation. As the outcome of this meeting unfolds, the prospects for a stronger bilateral relationship and a more harmonious region look promising. Stay tuned for further updates on this development, which has implications not only for Romania and Ukraine, but also for the wider European context.
In a major diplomatic effort, the Prime Ministers of Romania and Ukraine met in Bucharest to discuss major issues of paramount importance to both nations. The meeting revolved around two key topics: the smooth transit of cereals across borders and the protection of minority rights in the Bucharest region.
Efficient grain transportation:
The leaders of Romania and Ukraine engaged in a productive dialogue aimed at strengthening grain transit mechanisms between the two countries. As cereals are a vital part of any country's agricultural sector, streamlining their cross-border movement has the potential to boost economic growth and food security. This joint effort underscores the commitment of both governments to facilitate trade and strengthen ties, promoting regional stability and prosperity.
Protection of minority rights in Bucharest:
Another key point of discussion was the preservation of the rights of minorities in the Bucharest region. Both Prime Ministers emphasized the importance of inclusivity and cultural diversity and pledged to work together to ensure that minority communities are not only protected but also empowered. This commitment is in line with international standards and underlines the determination of the Romanian and Ukrainian governments to uphold human rights and promote social harmony.
Regional cooperation and diplomatic relations:
Bilateral negotiations in Bucharest highlight the positive trajectory of Romanian-Ukrainian relations. The heads of government have demonstrated their willingness to promote cooperation and mutual understanding by addressing critical issues such as grain transit and minority rights. This constructive approach paves the way for future cooperation that can lead to shared economic growth and a more inclusive society.
The meeting between the Romanian and Ukrainian prime ministers in Bucharest yielded promising results, underlining the joint determination to increase the efficiency of grain transit and protect the rights of minorities. This cross-border cooperation not only benefits both nations directly involved, but also contributes to broader regional stability and prosperity. As the two governments continue to work hand in hand, these discussions set a positive precedent for diplomatic relations and policy coordination between Romania and Ukraine. Stay informed about these evolving developments that shape the future of these nations and their interactions on the global stage.
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