Romania Backs Ireland’s EU Council Presidency, Calls for an Ambitious Budget and Stronger European Unity

Romania has reaffirmed its commitment to a stronger, more resilient European Union during the launch event of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union in Bucharest on July 3, 2026.

At the event, Oana Țoiu expressed Romania’s full support for advancing the European agenda under Ireland’s leadership. Addressing diplomats, government representatives, and members of the media, she emphasized that the European Union must continue investing in economic cohesion, competitiveness, security, and the protection of its shared democratic values.

A Vision for a Stronger European Union

In her remarks, Minister Țoiu stressed that Europe faces a period of significant geopolitical and economic challenges, making coordinated action more important than ever.

She argued that the Union should continue strengthening policies that directly benefit citizens while maintaining investments in regional development, innovation, infrastructure, and sustainable economic growth. According to Romania, cohesion, competitiveness, and security should remain central pillars of the EU’s future strategy.

The minister also highlighted the importance of preserving the Union’s fundamental values, including democracy, the rule of law, and respect for human rights.

Support for an Ambitious EU Budget

A major focus of Romania’s position was the upcoming Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF)—the European Union’s long-term budget.

Minister Țoiu described the budget as the principal instrument for transforming the EU’s strategic priorities into practical benefits for citizens. Romania supports a robust financial framework capable of funding both the Union’s internal development and its international commitments.

The government believes future EU spending should remain sufficiently ambitious to address infrastructure modernization, economic competitiveness, climate challenges, and regional development.

Protecting Cohesion and Agriculture

Romania emphasized that EU Cohesion Policy and the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) remain essential components of European integration.

According to the Romanian government, these long-standing policies have delivered tangible improvements in infrastructure, rural development, and economic convergence across member states.

Maintaining strong financial support for cohesion funds and agriculture is viewed as particularly important for continuing investment in transport networks, regional development, and rural communities while enhancing national resilience.

Strengthening Europe’s Industrial Base

Romania also called for renewed investment in Europe’s industrial capacity.

The minister highlighted the importance of reinforcing the EU Single Market, supporting traditional European industries, and creating favorable conditions for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Improving industrial competitiveness, encouraging innovation, and reducing barriers to business growth were presented as key priorities for ensuring Europe’s long-term economic resilience.

Security and the Black Sea Region

Beyond economic issues, Minister Țoiu underlined the growing importance of security in the Black Sea region.

Romania considers regional stability a strategic priority and supports stronger European cooperation to improve resilience against emerging security challenges, including hybrid threats targeting critical infrastructure.

The minister also referenced the recently completed joint concept developed by Romania and Bulgaria for a Black Sea Maritime Security Hub. The initiative is intended to strengthen regional cooperation, protect maritime infrastructure, and improve preparedness against evolving security risks while remaining open to broader European collaboration.

Supporting European Enlargement

Romania reiterated its commitment to continued EU enlargement, describing it as an important investment in the continent’s long-term stability and prosperity.

Minister Țoiu expressed support for advancing the European integration paths of Moldova, Ukraine, and the Western Balkans, emphasizing that enlargement should remain based on progress, reforms, and shared European values.

Regional Cooperation and Connectivity

Romania also highlighted its leadership roles in regional initiatives, including the South-East European Cooperation Process (SEECP) and the Central European Initiative (CEI).

These platforms are expected to promote practical cooperation through improved connectivity, regional partnerships, youth programs, civil society initiatives, and projects aimed at facilitating closer European integration for candidate countries.

Among the initiatives mentioned were efforts to improve cross-border mobility and payment systems while expanding opportunities for citizens and businesses throughout the region.

Looking Ahead

As Ireland begins its Presidency of the Council of the European Union, Romania has signaled its intention to remain an active partner in shaping the Union’s future. By advocating for a strong long-term budget, continued cohesion funding, enhanced security, industrial competitiveness, and responsible enlargement, Bucharest aims to contribute to a more resilient and united Europe.

Romania’s message reflects a broader vision of an EU that combines economic opportunity with solidarity, protects its democratic values, and strengthens cooperation both within the Union and across its neighboring regions.