Georgian, Romanian defence ministers discuss security matters, Black Sea region challenges

Security environment and challenges in the Black Sea region were discussed on Tuesday in a meeting between Georgian defence minister Juansher Burchuladze and his Romanian counterpart Vasile Dîncu.

In the meeting, Burchuladze stressed Romania was one of the “loyal” supporters of Georgia's territorial integrity and sovereignty, as well as its integration into the European Union and NATO, the defence ministry said. 

Burchuladze also noted the cooperation between the countries was “important” for the stability in the Black Sea region, as deterrence against Russia's “aggressive actions” and in countering hybrid challenges.

The meeting discussed reforms carried out in the Georgian defence sector and aimed at developing compatibility with the NATO standards, as well as the implementation of the initiatives defined by the Substantial NATO-Georgia Package.

The officials reviewed the “growing dynamics” and future prospects of bilateral defence cooperation, the Georgian body also said. They also highlighted that Georgia’s cooperation with Romania was important in terms of strengthening defence capabilities, military education, and joint exercises.

The ministers signed a strategic agreement on defence cooperation, aimed at “further deepening” the existing cooperation.