A significant deepening of German-Romanian relations was announced following a meeting between German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Romanian President Nicușor Dan on Friday. This marked President Dan’s first official foreign visit since assuming office.
The talks centered on the signing of a bilateral “Action Plan” by the foreign ministers of both countries. The plan outlines expanded collaboration, notably within the defense industry, encompassing the European Union’s “Safe” program. President Dan specifically highlighted ongoing advanced negotiations between the Romanian state-owned company Romarm and Rheinmetall concerning ammunition production. Joint projects leveraging EU funding are also under consideration.
Both Chancellor Merz and President Dan addressed the escalating threat posed by Russian cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns. Chancellor Merz described what he characterized as a growing effort by Russia to destabilize Europe, adding that these attempts have been intensifying over recent years. President Dan referenced considerable external influence observed during the Romanian election cycle and called for strengthened cooperation to safeguard democratic processes.
Highlighting the strength of existing economic ties, Chancellor Merz noted that bilateral trade reached a record volume exceeding 42 billion euros last year. Both leaders expressed a shared ambition to further expand these economic relations, recognizing significant potential for continued growth and deeper collaboration.
