The interim President of Romania, Ilie Bolojan, met with Romanian MEPs

Bucharest – The discussions focused on the priority topics on the agenda of the European Union, including European security and defense, the transatlantic relationship, the EU’s multiannual budget, the absorption of European funds – especially those from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) -, support for Ukraine, and the Union’s enlargement policy, as well as on ways in which Romania can strengthen its position and contribution within the EU.

“In the field of defense, the necessity of a coordinated vision was discussed, which would integrate the defense industry, priority investment areas, financial aspects, and complementarity with NATO, the guarantor of collective defense. Romania will seek to strengthen its defense capacity and develop the national industry, leveraging the opportunities offered by the European Union, in accordance with the commitments made within NATO,” the Presidential Administration states.

The discussion also addressed the topic of European funds, particularly the implementation of the PNRR, in which context the interim president emphasized the importance of efficient absorption, through constant communication between decision-makers and a clear prioritization of projects.

The Presidential Administration adds that, regarding support for Ukraine, Ilie Bolojan stated that Romania will continue to collaborate with European and international partners to contribute to a quick and sustainable peace solution. “The need for active involvement from the European Parliament in this effort was emphasized,” adds the cited source.

An issue raised by the majority of Romanian members of the European Parliament was the current electoral context in Romania, where presidential elections will take place in May.

“In this regard, President Ilie Bolojan emphasized the need for a transparent and efficient electoral process, highlighting that a fair conduct of the elections represents a strategic interest for Romania, essential for strengthening democracy and for gaining citizens’ trust in state institutions,” the cited source specifies.

Romania is represented in the European Parliament by 33 Members of the European Parliament. (14.4.2025)