Romania takes on presidency of Southeast European Cooperation Process

Romania has officially taken over the presidency of the Southeast European Cooperation Process (SEECP), a significant milestone as the region marks 30 years since its establishment in 2026. This important transition occurred during a summit held on Wednesday in Sofia, where Romania's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Oana Țoiu, represented President Nicușor Dan.

In her remarks at the summit, Oana Țoiu emphasized the shared responsibility to ensure a stable, secure, prosperous, and sustainable future for Southeast Europe. She stated, 'The future of Southeast Europe is European, and our common responsibility is to ensure that this future becomes clear to all citizens who are waiting for it.'

Romania's presidency will run from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, focusing on three main directions: supporting the European Union's enlargement process, enhancing security and resilience, and promoting economic and social development. The motto for the Romanian presidency is 'Resilient. Connected. European.'

Key priorities during this term will include investment in regional infrastructure and strengthening connectivity across various sectors such as energy, transport, and digital communication. Additionally, Romania aims to continue the projects developed by previous presidencies and advocate for a closer regional cooperation in light of current challenges, including the war in Ukraine.

Oana Țoiu also highlighted the importance of integrating the Western Balkans, Moldova, and Ukraine into the European framework, asserting that such integration is crucial for enhancing stability, security, and prosperity across the continent. Romania has committed to protecting critical infrastructures and democratic societies during its presidency.

The summit concluded with the adoption of the SEECP Declaration from Sofia, reaffirming the participants' commitment to regional cooperation, sustainable development, and increased resilience in Southeast Europe. Romania is set to host the SEECP summit and the meeting of foreign ministers in Bucharest during the summer of 2027.