Bucharest: Political, trade, and economic relations between Trkiye and Romania are expected to strengthen and regional cooperation is anticipated to increase following the election of pro-European independent candidate and former Bucharest Mayor Nicusor Dan as president of Romania.
According to Anadolu Agency, Marmara University Associate Professor Meral Balci observed the elections and noted that the Romanian presidential vote marked a critical turning point in the country’s foreign policy orientation. Balci highlighted that Nicusor Dan, an independent and center-right candidate, was elected president, surpassing the far-right, anti-EU candidate George Simion. She stated that this outcome demonstrates Romania’s commitment to continue its integration with the EU and NATO.
Balci emphasized that Dan’s victory can be seen as a positive development for Trkiye-Romania relations. Both nations signed a ‘Strategic Partnership’ agreement in 2011, which deepened cooperation in political, economic, and security fields. Dan’s pro-EU and pro-NATO policies may facilitate further strengthening of existing cooperation with Trkiye.
Balci suggested that new partnerships could emerge, particularly in defense industry, energy security, and trade. She indicated that Dan’s commitments to anti-corruption and rule of law might also encourage sharing of experiences between the two countries, aligning with similar reform processes in Trkiye.
Balci continued by stating that Trkiye and Romania are pivotal actors for the security and stability of the Black Sea region. Both countries are developing joint strategies against regional threats as NATO members. She referenced the recent establishment of the Black Sea Mine Countermeasure Task Group with Romania and Bulgaria under Trkiye’s leadership as a significant step towards ensuring maritime security and protecting trade routes.
Balci noted that developing joint projects in areas such as energy security, cyber defense, and combating cross-border crimes will strengthen regional stability. Future joint exercises and training programs within NATO’s framework could further deepen military cooperation.
Ecaterina Matoi, program director at the Middle East Political and Economic Institute in Bucharest, told Anadolu that global economic cooperation is advancing rapidly. She emphasized that changing global trade standards through bilateral agreements and dynamic economic measures could revitalize sectors. Matoi highlighted Trkiye’s initiative to become a regional energy hub and suggested closer analysis of the Romanian energy market due to historical and strong economic-cultural ties.
Matoi mentioned Trkiye’s positive trade balance with Romania and Bulgaria, noting the significance of Europe’s role as Trkiye’s most crucial trading partner. She pointed out the recent expansion of the Schengen Area to Romania and Bulgaria, which enhances business mobility and tourism.
Matoi stressed that Eastern European countries like Romania serve as a gateway between the EU and Trkiye. She identified key elements indicating overall positive development and cooperation between Trkiye and the EU.
With Dan assuming the presidency on May 26, after defeating his nationalist rival George Simion, the election results are expected to be a turning point for regional stability. In his inauguration speech, Dan emphasized national stability and restoring trust in democratic institutions while pledging to strengthen Romania’s ties with the EU and NATO.
The projects planned through the Middle Corridor and the Black Sea might foster diplomatic and economic relations between Trkiye and Romania, potentially elevating bilateral cooperation to a higher level.