Nicușor Dan
@NicusorDanRO · Europe
Nicușor Dan is followed by Storyz World for government and public service coverage connected to Romania in the Europe chapter.
Constructive discussions today at Cotroceni Palace with #Hadja Lahbib, European Commissioner for Preparedness, Crisis Management and Equality. I reaffirmed our strong commitment to strengthening the resilience and preparedness capacity of the European Union, in an increasingly complex security environment. Our priorities are strengthening resilience and preparedness in the Black Sea region, Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova, ensuring the effective implementation of crisis management instruments (UCPM, rescEU), strengthening humanitarian response capacity and maintaining close cooperation with the European Commission in the context of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. I received a letter of appreciation from the European Commissioner for our country’s support in carrying out medical evacuations under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, as well as for our continued commitment in this area. Thanks to Romania’s efforts, as of 31 August 2026, five children from the Gaza Strip are currently receiving life-saving treatment in Romania and Belgium. More than 180 patients have been transported from the Gaza Strip, Ukraine, North Macedonia and Switzerland to other European countries, while 57 children from the Gaza Strip have received medical treatment. #RO #EU #Resilience
I marked the beginning of the school year alongside the students, teachers, and parents in Curcani, Călărași County. We are talking about a community that offers us a valuable lesson in what responsibility in education means. Through direct involvement and concrete measures, the teaching team managed to achieve a significant reduction in school dropout, successfully addressing a serious problem faced by many communities in Romania. The success of the school in Curcani shows us that progress in education depends not only on resources, but also on determination, rigor, and empathy. It is a model of good practice that the Romanian education system needs in as many communities across the country as possible. However, inadequate funding of the education system is a real problem. Only people who feel they have a calling come into the education system. At least once a year, at the start of school, we can all, as a society, say clearly: “Thank you to the teaching staff!”. Let us encourage parents to be open to what the teaching staff tell them, and let us encourage students to value school and understand that, in order to succeed in their personal lives, what they learn in school will remain important from now on. The joy of learning is essential to the human personality.
Translated from RomanianCongratulations @GiorgiaMeloni as your government becomes today the longest-serving in the history of the Italian Republic. It is a milestone that reflects the institutional continuity which gives policy the horizon it requires to deliver. Romania and Italy are bound by a Strategic Partnership that rests on strong foundations. More than a million Romanians live and work in Italy, the largest foreign community in the country, and our economies are closely tied. Italy is Romania's second trade partner and the leading source of foreign-capital companies here. We are marking those ties this year through the Romania–Italy Cultural Year. I look forward to continuing our work together, co-chairing the Friends of Cohesion in the negotiations on the 2028–2034 multiannual financial framework, where Romania and Italy make the common case for an ambitious EU budget with adequate resources for cohesion and agriculture, and standing side by side on the security of NATO's eastern flank and the Black Sea.
It was a pleasure and an honor to meet today at Cotroceni Palace with the President of the European Council, António Costa. The main subject of our discussion concerned the future budget of the European Union for the 2028–2034 period. Romania’s position is clear. We want an ambitious European budget that allocates substantial amounts to cohesion, agriculture, and the competitiveness pillar, because it is important to reduce the gaps between member countries and enable companies in less developed European countries, such as Romania, to have access to funding. We are also seeking a certain degree of flexibility to facilitate the absorption of European funds. In the dialogue with President Costa, we also spoke about how, within the 27 states, we can reach a compromise both on the spending side, but especially on the revenue side, and what additional revenues would make this ambitious Union budget possible. In preparation for the European Council in October, we also addressed the issue of the European Union’s enlargement, our interest being for the Republic of Moldova’s accession process to continue at a sustained pace. We also focused on support for Ukraine and how these security needs can be included in the future Multiannual Financial Framework, as well as on how we build a common European energy market.
Translated from RomanianCongratulations, Ülle Madise, on your election as President of Estonia! Romania and Estonia are close European partners and NATO allies, bound by a shared responsibility for the security of our region and NATO's Eastern Flank, from the Baltic to the Black Sea. I look forward to working closely together to deepen our partnership, for the security and prosperity of our peoples.
Today I told the new graduates of the National Institute of Magistracy that the profession they have chosen is both a great responsibility and a source of satisfaction. The way citizens feel that justice is or is not being done to them largely determines the trust they have in the Romanian state. The justice service is a public service, it addresses the public and it is measured by the public. The most important indicator is people’s trust in the justice system, and if this trust remains at its current level of 25%, it means that all of us are doing something wrong. We all need to work together to correct this situation. Inevitably, young magistrates will face several temptations, whether we are talking about the temptation of arrogance, complacency or conformism. It is important that they resist these temptations and have the courage of their own opinions. As for prosecutors, society naturally expects them to address domestic violence, drug trafficking and, especially, the phenomenon of corruption. I am convinced that things can only evolve in the right direction because there is a great deal of good faith. We only need to succeed in arranging all these individual good intentions into a system that works. I am optimistic that, including through the work of the new magistrates, within a reasonable period we will reach the proper balance and a perception of justice in our country.
Translated from RomanianI was delighted to host the former German Federal Chancellor, Dr. Angela Merkel, at the Cotroceni Palace today. We had a very good discussion about the global political and security context. It was very insightful to hear Dr. Merkel's opinions, based on her far-reaching political experience. We focused on the constructive role a more united EU can play in international affairs, as well as what Romania and Germany can do together to foster more European cohesion and a stronger stance on defence, with more responsibility taken on by Europeans within NATO.
Today, at Cotroceni Palace, on the occasion of the Annual Meeting of Romanian Diplomacy, I received the representatives of our diplomatic missions and conveyed to them the essential directions of our country's foreign policy. Romania's three major objectives are therefore strengthening security, supporting Romanian communities outside the country's borders, and economic diplomacy. Romania contributes to transatlantic security, the security of the Eastern Flank, and that of the region in which we are located. Regarding the partnership with the United States, which is very important for Romania, we have made progress and, in the future, we would like American companies to have a more significant economic presence in our country, beyond cooperation in the security sphere. In the current geopolitical context, we are focusing on bilateral partnerships with a defense component that will strengthen the security provided to us by participation in multilateral formats. Combating hybrid threats, including those in the cyber and disinformation spheres, remains a priority. Regarding our relationship with the European Union, an important year is ahead, with major decisions concerning the European budget for the 2028–2034 period. We support the integration process for the Republic of Moldova, Ukraine, and the Western Balkans, without departing from the principle of merit-based accession. There are two international formats that are priorities for us: the OECD, where we have fulfilled all the technical conditions and are soon expecting the political decision on integration; and the International Organisation of la Francophonie, which is another important stake for Romania. We have a very good candidate for the position of secretary-general, and it is important that our diplomatic efforts move in this direction. Regarding our relationship with Romanian communities outside the country's borders, we have made significant progress in our relationship with Ukraine, with beneficial consequences for the Romanian minority in the neighboring country. Starting this year, Ukraine celebrates Romanian Language Day on August 31, and I believe that those concerns regarding schooling in the Romanian language have largely dissipated. In the countries where we have large Romanian communities, we must optimize consular services. In the field of economic diplomacy, opportunities are opening up with the treaties signed by the European Union concerning Mercosur, India, Indonesia, Australia, and other relevant markets. Therefore, we must focus our efforts so as to optimize both the presence of Romanian companies in these markets and the attraction of capital to Romania. The prolonged political crisis has led to the postponement both of the diplomats' rotation, which should have taken place during this summer, and of the resolution of logistical, administrative, and financing matters by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Translated from RomanianToday we celebrate Romanian Language Day, at a moment of special significance: for the first time, we are celebrating together in three countries, Romania, the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine. Protecting the rights of Romanians everywhere and promoting our language and culture remain essential objectives of the Romanian state beyond its borders. We are united by this valuable bond of the Romanian language, which anchors us in history and opens the future to us. Happy Romanian Language Day, and best wishes to everyone who speaks it, writes it and keeps it alive!
Translated from RomanianIt was a pleasure to meet Congressman @RepMikeRogersAL, Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, and Congressman Eric Sorensen, member of the Committee, at Mihail Kogălniceanu Air Base (MK) — the hub of the US military presence in Romania and a tangible expression of our defence and security cooperation. Our discussions highlighted the strategic importance of the Black Sea region for transatlantic security and the need to further strengthen collective deterrence and resilience. Romania is ready to shoulder a greater share of its own defence — raising our commitments and delivering on them. We also reviewed a wide range of priorities within our vibrant Strategic Partnership, reaffirming our shared commitment to advancing cooperation in the economy, defence industry, energy, infrastructure, critical minerals and emerging technologies. Strengthening and expanding the US economic and military presence in Romania is a priority — for our bilateral partnership, for the security of the Black Sea region, and for the unity of the Transatlantic Alliance.
Moldova's Independence Day was a good opportunity for us to be together and reaffirm the close ties between Romania and the Republic of Moldova. It was a day about people, about the friendship between the two countries and about a European path that we support with full confidence. The visit began in Cahul, where we discovered a city with a rich history and marked Romania's investments in local cultural and educational infrastructure. In Chișinău, we celebrated 35 years of the Republic of Moldova's independence alongside President Maia Sandu and the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, expressing our full support for their European integration. The bilateral discussions focused on strengthening energy security, resilience in the face of hybrid threats and concrete measures to counter challenges in the airspace and maritime space. We also held a trilateral meeting in the Odesa Triangle format, alongside Volodymyr Zelenskyy, where we underscored our shared commitment to Ukraine's independence and to a safer and European region.
Translated from RomanianIt is with deep sorrow that I have received the news that His Majesty King Harald of Norway passed away earlier today. I extend my heartfelt condolences, also on behalf of the people of Romania, to His Majesty King Haakon, Queen Sonja, the whole royal family, and the people of Norway, and share in their grief.
Today in Chișinău, I held a substantive and significant trilateral meeting together with the President of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu, and the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The Odesa Triangle cooperation format between Romania, the Republic of Moldova, and Ukraine is more relevant than ever and brings added value to regional security and joint projects that generate concrete benefits for our citizens in the fields of energy interconnection, infrastructure, and European integration. Romania has developed Strategic Partnerships with both the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine, and we will continue to contribute together to strengthening the security and resilience of the Black Sea region and Southeastern Europe. During the meeting, we reaffirmed our support for the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Ukraine. As neighboring countries, Romania and the Republic of Moldova are strongly exposed to the complex consequences of the war, and we are working together to counter the broad range of risks and threats. We support a just and lasting peace and will work closely together for the reconstruction of Ukraine. We also discussed the European path of the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine. Romania will actively support the rapid opening of all outstanding negotiating clusters, with both the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine, based on the principle of accession according to merit. Together, Romania, the Republic of Moldova, and Ukraine are stronger. Through dialogue and cooperation, we can achieve our common objectives and build a safer, more resilient, and more European region.
Translated from RomanianToday in Chișinău, I held consultations with President Maia Sandu @sandumaiamd on the priorities of the bilateral agenda and current issues at the European and international levels. On this occasion, I offered congratulations to President Maia Sandu and the citizens of the Republic of Moldova on Independence Day, along with wishes for peace, prosperity and security within the European family Our meeting today is further proof of the closeness between Romania and the Republic of Moldova and of our special relationship, based on our shared history, language, culture and traditions. I offered words of encouragement to the Republic of Moldova for the progress made in the European integration process, which once again demonstrated exemplary political, administrative and civic mobilization to implement European legislation and the necessary reforms. The reforms must continue at a sustained pace, on all fronts, and Romania will remain close, providing technical expertise and diplomatic support so that the European integration process can advance at an accelerated pace. We also discussed energy security and interconnection projects. We have a firm joint commitment to continue sustained efforts in this area. Today we also addressed resilience, combating disinformation and hybrid threats, as well as the need to counter pressure from Russia. Among these, the violation of our airspace by Russian drones represents a constant challenge for our authorities, and we will deepen our cooperation in this area.
Translated from RomanianOn my way to Chișinău, I stopped to visit the city of Cahul, an important landmark of Romanian identity, culture and spirit in the Republic of Moldova. I was pleased to discover a city with a rich history, hardworking people and a community that has known how to preserve and pass on the values we share. In Cahul, we find links between Romania and the Republic of Moldova in education, culture, the economy, local community projects and, above all, in relations between people. That is why Romania contributed funds to the construction of a new building for the “Bogdan Petriceicu Hașdeu” Theatre and to the modernization of a dormitory at Cahul University. I appreciated the efforts of the local authorities, institutions, teachers, cultural figures, entrepreneurs, young people and everyone who contributes day by day to the development of Cahul and the strengthening of the relationship between the Republic of Moldova and Romania.
Translated from RomanianDeeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives and devastation caused by the floods in Nepal and China. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families who lost loved ones and wish strength to the rescue teams searching for the missing.
I promulgated an important law that corrects an inequity produced by the application of the VAT regime and supports affected taxpayers. The first situation the law remedies is that of taxpayers whose VAT code was cancelled and who, although they had not separately invoiced or collected VAT from customers, subsequently faced the retroactive assessment, through tax assessment decisions, of VAT obligations to which interest and penalties were added. For many of the affected businesses, the accumulation of these obligations for previous tax periods created a significant financial burden, with direct negative effects on their activity. The law corrects this situation by cancelling the principal tax obligations and the related accessories for the cases expressly provided for by law. It covers both obligations already established through tax assessment decisions and situations in which the decision was issued but has not yet been communicated, as well as those in which the tax authority has not yet issued the decision for the periods covered by the law. It is important to stress that this is not a general and unconditional cancellation of VAT obligations. The law does not apply to transactions for which the taxpayer separately entered VAT on invoices or equivalent documents, or collected the tax, in whole or in part, from the beneficiaries. Where VAT was separately invoiced or actually collected from customers, the tax obligation remains. The cancellation of the obligations covered by the law will be carried out automatically by the tax administration. Taxpayers who paid the amounts established by tax assessment decisions falling under the law will be able to request them back. Thus, the measure also takes effect for those who have already fulfilled the obligations established by the tax administration, avoiding disadvantaging them compared with taxpayers whose obligations have not yet been settled. Through this law, disproportionate financial consequences are removed, for the expressly provided situations, and resources are released that will remain in the businesses’ operations. It is a measure intended to pursue fairer and more predictable tax treatment, without exempting from payment VAT that was actually invoiced separately or collected from beneficiaries. ANAF has 30 days from the law’s entry into force to approve the implementation procedure. A fair tax system requires both taxpayers to comply with their obligations and the state to be able to correct situations in which the application of tax rules produces disproportionate effects.
Translated from Romanian (Romania)Today, marking Ukraine's Independence Day, we held a constructive meeting of the Coalition of the Willing #CoW. It was a timely opportunity to reaffirm our full backing for Ukraine and we continued discussions on finalizing a robust framework of security guarantees. We also addressed the rising number of drone incidents at NATO’s borders and other hybrid activities conducted by Russia, as well as the need to secure navigation and commercial routes in the Black Sea. We remain determined to keep up the pressure on Russia so that a lasting and just peace can be achieved. We firmly condemned its most recent attacks on Ukrainian civilian population, which are an act of irresponsibility and cruelty.
On the occasion of Ukraine's Independence Day, Romania extends its warmest congratulations, along with wishes of peace, security, and prosperity. Today, we honour the extraordinary courage and heroic resilience of the Ukrainian people in defence of our shared values and freedom. Romania will continue to stand by #Ukraine, steadfast in upholding the country’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. Ukraine can count on our multidimensional assistance. Romania also remains fully committed to supporting Ukraine's EU accession process and its post-conflict reconstruction. At the same time, NATO's continued engagement with Ukraine remains essential to the long-term stability and security of the entire Euro-Atlantic area. @ZelenskyyUa