The Netherlands will support Romania in terms of accession to the Schengen Area

The Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs Wopke Hoekstra said that his country will support Romania in terms of accession to the Schengen Area, stating, at the same time, that he discussed this topic several times with the Romanian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bogdan Aurescu.

Wopke Hoekstra: Our commitment is on Romania's side and, as I think you know, it is not an easy topic in the Netherlands. My personal belief is that this country has had an extraordinary journey.

Reporter: Romania's expectation to join the free movement area is legitimate, the head of Romanian diplomacy, Bogdan Aurescu, declared for his part.

Bogdan Aurescu: I also highlighted that Romania's expectation, regarding the accession to the free movement area, is fully justified, being considered both by the European partners and by the European institutions as the expression of a strong effort that we have made in recent years, but including in the last period, these partners of ours and these institutions fully recognizing the efforts and advances made by Romania.

Reporter: The discussions also covered the war in Ukraine, and the French Foreign Minister mentioned the challenges facing the European continent and stated that the support given to Ukraine must be intensified.

Wopke Hoekstra: Our determination to help Ukraine will last as long as it takes. We make this commitment together with all European partners and allies. Together with Romania and the Netherlands, it was important to show this clearly, that we are present on the eastern flank, which is part of our continent.

Reporter: The three ministers signed a joint statement on cooperation in foreign affairs and security.

Translated by: Radu Matei