Expert: Moldova will be central to Nicușor Dan's foreign policy
Romania aims to strengthen its relations with the Republic of Moldova, a commitment announced by president-elect Nicușor Dan, according to Bucharest political expert Dorin Popescu on the "Parallel 47" show on Radio Moldova.
The new leader from Cotroceni has prioritized policies that cater to citizens' needs, streamline borders, simplify customs processes, and enhance common infrastructure. Romania also commits to being a crucial supporter of Chisinau's European integration and promises assistance in establishing cross-border energy connections, Dorin Popescu said.
Regarding the European Union, Romania aims to maximize its participation in financing programs for joint acquisitions and ammunition and weapons production. The objective is to secure a significant share of the EU-managed funds for both joint and national acquisitions. Romania's influence within the EU will be strengthened, and efforts will be made to support a robust military, political, geopolitical, and economic presence for both Romania and major European capitals within the extended Black Sea region.
According to Dorin Popescu, Romania's new President, Nicușor Dan, plans to implement a proactive and coherent foreign policy that emphasizes strengthening strategic partnerships with the European Union, NATO, and the United States. The analyst suggests that the Romanian president will seek a more substantial presence in international organizations, aiming to position Romania as a key player in enhancing the defense capabilities of the community bloc. Proposed initiatives include increasing defense spending to 3.5% of GDP and utilizing European funds for joint weapons acquisitions and production.
In this context, Romania will support strengthening energy connections between Romania and Moldova, which is a priority in the president's electoral program. There is also a focus on establishing a national investment fund to assist Romanian companies interested in investing in the Republic of Moldova. Although this concept is not new, it has yet to be implemented effectively. Nicușor Dan aims to ensure its realization. Other targeted improvements include reducing the time citizens spend crossing the border between the two countries, minimizing bureaucracy, and adopting measures to facilitate transit.
Nicușor Dan will officially take the oath of office as President of Romania on Monday at 12:00 PM at the Palace of Parliament during a joint session of the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate. This ceremony follows the Constitutional Court's formal validation of the presidential election results. After taking office, President Dan will need to appoint a Prime Minister who can secure a parliamentary majority. He expressed a strong preference for Ilie Bolojan as his choice for the Prime Minister position.
