Corlatean and Brende discuss strengthening economic relations between Romania and Norway

Head of Romanian diplomacy Titus Corlatean discussed, on Sunday, with his Norwegian counterpart Borge Brende about the excellent relations between the two states and strengthening economic ties.

"We had a very good discussion about the excellent relations and cooperation between the two states, the level of political cooperation is very good. We work together as good allies in NATO and we are interested in supporting a stronger economic cooperation. Last year we reached a good level of commercial exchange, worth around 750 million dollars, a 40 percent increase over the year before", said Corlatean during a joint press conference held together with Brende.

In his turn, the Norwegian diplomat said he is in favor of strengthening commercial relations between the two states.

"As you know, Norway is not a EU Member State, but we are part of the Common Market of the European Economic Area, and Romania, in what regards grants through the European Economic Area, is our second partner", said Brende.

He showed that in the last five years the sums obtained through these grants were allocated for programs that have as objectives, among others, rule of law, strengthening the judicial sector, but also environment protection, and energy.

Another subject of the discussions referred to the situation in Ukraine. The Romanian Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of the presidential elections in Ukraine.

"We want there to be transparent, democratic and legitimate results that would allow Ukraine to continue its European path", said Corlatean.

In his turn, the Norwegian official spoke of Ukraine's need for a leader validated through elections.

"For Ukraine it is important to have a leader with a clear...