The second Swiss contribution builds on the previous cohesion or enlargement contribution, according to a statement from the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs (EDA) of Cassis on Monday evening. Between 2009 and 2019, Switzerland had already funded projects in Romania with approximately CHF 180 million, benefiting society as a whole.
As with the first cohesion contribution, the second goes to projects in which Romania also makes a financial contribution. According to the FDFA, experts from both countries will work to implement the program, which focuses on economic development, the promotion of energy efficiency and sustainability, and social inclusion.
Cassis is quoted by the FDFA that the agreement will further strengthen relations between Switzerland and Romania. In particular, economic relations have developed strongly in recent years, making Romania now Switzerland’s most important trading partner in southeastern Europe.
Cassis also met his counterpart, Romanian President Klaus Werner Iohannis, and Prime Minister Nicolae Ciuca in Bucharest on Monday. According to the FDFA, in addition to bilateral relations, European policy was also the subject of discussion. The war in Ukraine after the Russian attack in February and the security situation in Europe were also discussed.
Switzerland paid tribute to Romania’s commitment to stability and energy supply in neighboring Moldova (also: Republic of Moldova – formerly known as Moldova), which is geographically located between Romania and Ukraine.
Earlier in the day, Cassis met with Moldovan President Maia Sandu at a working meeting. Conversations with her mainly focused on the impact of the war in Ukraine on Moldova, which has only 2.5 million inhabitants, and Switzerland’s support in this regard.
(SDA)