Romania’s president, Nicusor Dan, arrived in Odesa on 11 June to attend the fourth Ukraine–Southeast Europe Summit, convened by President Volodymyr Zelenskyi. According to the statement released by the Romanian presidency, the gathering brought regional leaders together to coordinate responses to Russia’s aggression, deepen security cooperation, and discuss joint reconstruction efforts.
Key Messages from President Dan
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Steadfast Support for Ukraine
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Reaffirmed Bucharest’s commitment to “a just and lasting peace.”
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Expressed readiness for Romanian participation in rebuilding Ukraine’s critical infrastructure.
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Regional Unity
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Highlighted the importance of maintaining cohesion among Southeast-European states to reinforce continental security.
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Black Sea Security
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Emphasised that safe maritime trade routes are vital for the region’s economy.
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Noted that stability in the Black Sea directly influences prosperity across Southeastern Europe.
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Trilateral Meeting: Romania, Moldova, Ukraine
While in Odesa, President Dan joined Zelenskyi and Moldovan leaders for the first top-level trilateral talks among the three countries. Discussions centred on:
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Strategic Infrastructure Projects – with an emphasis on energy interconnections.
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European Integration – aligning reforms and standards.
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Joint Security Cooperation – addressing common threats from the Russian Federation.
Context
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President Dan, elected earlier this year, has consistently voiced strong backing for Kyiv.
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Romanian domestic politics remain sensitive: the far-right AUR party recently refused consultations with the new president until he issues an apology for previous remarks.
The Odesa summit illustrates growing regional coordination and underlines Romania’s intention to play a significant role in both Ukraine’s defence and its future reconstruction.
