Romania to support Ukraine until victory, contribute to process of joining EU, NATO - MFA

Minister of Foreign Affairs Bogdan Aurescu of Romania said this today in Bucharest, opening the meeting of the First Black Sea Security Conference of the International Crimea Platform, Ukrinform reports.

"This event is one more proof that Romania, our region and the matter of fact, the whole world stand in solidarity with Ukraine and commends its extraordinary resilience in the face of the brutal Russian aggression. We continue to mourn the victims of Russia's war against Ukraine and we must continue to push for accountability for the crimes committed in your country. Romania stood by Ukraine in the first day of this aggression as a neighbor and a true friend. As a pillar of regional stability in the Black Sea area, provider of security. Romania has promptly granted a multidimension response,” minister said.

Bogdan Aurescu emphasized the practical support of Romania to the Ukrainian people.

"We have offered support to 3.9 million Ukrainian refugees. While also facilitating the transit of almost 15 million tons of grain from Ukraine through our territory. I reassure you that the Romanian support towards Ukraine will continue. We will also resolutely accompany Ukraine on its European and EuroAtlantic path of integration," he said.

The minister confirmed his full determination to continue multidimensional support to Ukraine as long as it is necessary to win the war.

"We all want peace. Peace in full respect of sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, in full respect of UN Charter and the fundamental principle of international law. But negotiations can only start when Ukraine is ready and the victory will look like in the way Ukraine will define it," Aurescu said.

He also emphasized that Russia had been affecting the security and stability of the Black Sea region for years, so now is the time to work together and make efforts for the security of the Black Sea, turning the Black Sea region into a region of peace, not war.

As Ukrinform reported, the First Black Sea Security Conference of the International Crimea Platform is being held today in Bucharest. The event has gathered representatives from more than 50 countries and organizations.