Birchall, in Washington DC: We have received assurances that, as strategic partner, US will continue to be alongside Romania

Bucharest, Feb 9 /Agerpres/ - Deputy Prime Minister Ana Birchall had a meeting with John Bolton, US President's National Security Advisor on Friday, in which they also discussed the recent statements by Russian Federation's officials on the defensive facilities at Deveselu.

According to a Government's release, Deputy Prime Minister Ana Birchall reiterated the key-role of the Strategic Partnership in terms of Romania's foreign policy and security, as well as the Government's commitment that Romania will continue to be a strategic partner of the United States.

In this context, the recent statements of the Russian Federation's officials regarding the defensive facilities at Deveselu were also discussed. Ana Birchall highlighted the importance that Romania attaches to security in the eastern flank and in the Black Sea region.

"I have talked with John Bolton about the serious accusations of the Russian Federation against our country requesting the destruction by the US of the anti-missile shield at Deveselu. We have received assurances that, as strategic and allied partner in NATO, the US will continue to be alongside Romania. Strengthening the presence in the Black Sea region, including for countering Russia's malignant influence, is a common goal. Romania still counts on US support including raising awareness of the security risks in this region. The Black Sea is of particular geostrategic importance and close cooperation in the region is essential from the perspective of managing the current security challenges," said Ana Birchall.

The Romanian Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the importance given by our country to energy security and cyber security, which our country wishes to advance on the European agenda, including in the context of the rotating presidency of the EU Council.

"Our country is a strong supporter of regional cooperation formats that can bring added value in areas such as energy security, interconnectivity of transport networks and corridors," Birchall said.

The Deputy Prime Minister also pointed out Romania's priorities in the presidency of the EU Council, highlighting the importance of strengthening the transatlantic relationship.

During the meeting, the two officials appreciated the excellent level of cooperation within the Romania-US Strategic Partnership and the involvement of US President Donald Trump's administration in promoting close ties between the two countries, the release also mentioned. AGERPRES (RO - editor: Antonia Nita: EN - author/editor: Bogdan Gabaroi)