Expansion of Military Support to Romania – Euractive DE

The new British ambassador to Bucharest, Giles Portman, told his first press conference on Tuesday that the United Kingdom would continue to expand its military presence and support for Romania as an ally.

In his first press conference in office, the new ambassador cited safety and security, trade and the fight against organized crime as his priorities.

“First, safety and security, as a NATO ally. We will continue to expand British support for Romania,” Portman said on Tuesday (January 23).

The ambassador said the UK would provide substantial support to Romania “especially in strengthening security arrangements in the Black Sea region,” including troop deployments, training and joint exercises.

“We have a number of plans to expand the scope of these training programs this year,” Portman added.

Royal Air Force Typhoons will return to Romania later this year for aerial surveillance, he said.

The British diplomat emphasized the importance of Black Sea defense for London, noting that the United Kingdom had provided two Sandown-class minesweepers to the Romanian Navy.

“Romania, together with Turkey and Bulgaria, plays an important role in demining the Black Sea region. This joint venture aims to facilitate the safe transportation of grain ships and ensure that essential food commodities reach people around the world,” the ambassador said. Latest deal between the three countries on demining in the Black Sea.