The celebration of Montenegrin Statehood Day, July 13, gives me the opportunity to share some thoughts on the state of Romanian-Montenegro relations and our common future in the European Union.
The recent major achievement of Montenegro, with the approval of the positive Interim Benchmark Report (IBAR) by the EU, is a clear sign that when there is political will, progress and rewards follow. Entering the final phase of negotiations is a moment of celebration and the best incentive to remain focused and committed to the reform agenda. On this path, the EU, through its institutions and member states, will continue to support Montenegro in achieving visible results.
The European Union is the most successful integration project in the world. In fact, it is a unique case. Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine with all its enormous challenges has only emphasized the EU's strength in terms of solidarity, democracy and prosperity.
Romania is a proud, determined and successful example of NATO and EU integration.
Romania and Montenegro are allies in NATO and together with the other 30 members defend the same values. This month in Washington, at the NATO Summit, allied leaders adopted new and important decisions for the defense of allied territory, in light of Russian aggression against Ukraine. Also, considering Russia's constant hybrid actions against allies and their interests, NATO leaders reaffirmed the strategic importance of the Black Sea and the Western Balkans region. Romania acts in order to fulfill the goals of NATO in both regions, at the same time it supports Ukraine and calls for support for the Republic of Moldova, a vulnerable state in the context of the war waged by Moscow against Kiev.
We will continue to support Ukraine as long as it takes for Kyiv to prevail in defense of its sovereignty and territorial integrity, in accordance with Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. We will also continue to come to the aid of other vulnerable partners in the wider Black Sea and Western Balkans region, such as the Republic of Moldova or Bosnia and Herzegovina together with our allies and count on the contribution of Montenegro in this regard.
Regarding European integration, I would like to point out that the majority of European citizens, including Romania, voted for a more integrated and prosperous Europe in the recent European elections. As the most advanced liberal and democratic integrated project in the world, the European Union stands on solid foundations. Contrary to the autocratic models spread in other parts of the world, the EU is permanent proof that only societies based on prosperity, democracy, sustainable development, social and human rights can progress peacefully and safely. The European Union is moving towards even closer integration, towards greater prosperity, new waves of enlargement and aims to strengthen its security within its borders and in the neighbourhood.
Since Romania joined the EU in 2007, we have increased foreign investment and tripled economic growth. Romania has registered a constant growth in foreign direct investment flows, from 5,2 billion euros in 2004 to 11 billion euros in 2022. Romanian GDP has grown from 100 billion euros in 2007 to 320 billion euros in 2023. The numbers speak for themselves about how EU membership enabled more intensive economic development and an increased standard of living for all our citizens.
We look forward to sharing our experience and best practices with the Government of Montenegro in order to facilitate Montenegro's progress in the reform processes within the framework of EU accession. Citizens will soon feel the benefits of building a more reliable judiciary, independent political institutions and a sustainable economy. An independent, responsible and professional judicial system is a key element for achieving sustainable results in all other areas of integration processes. Green and circular economy, innovation and high standard education, all these goals will be achieved by Montenegro in a fairly short period of time.
Romania's firm support to Montenegro will continue throughout the entire process of European integration. We have already expressed our willingness to share our expertise as a trusted partner and close friend. The recent visits to Romania by President Jakov Milatović and Minister of Foreign Affairs Filip Ivanović proved that the ties that exist between our countries are stronger than ever. We look forward to further meetings at the governmental level to build on the solid foundations and excellent relations that exist between our countries. In this context, we expect that economic cooperation and touristic and cultural exchange will increase even more, as well as people-to-people connections.
Romanian citizens living in Montenegro are well organized in associations, quite active in the promotion of Romanian culture and tradition. I am very glad that recently, together with the Ministry of Culture and Media of Montenegro and the Capital City of Podgorica, the Romanian side officially opened the monument to the national poet of Romania, Mihaj Eminescu, and the street named after Krajiva in Podgorica. Montenegrins are our very good friends and neighbors, and we will do our best to support them to join the big European family.
The author is the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Romania
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