Ankara: Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz extended his greetings to Romania on its national day, emphasizing the strategic partnership and alliance between Ankara and Bucharest, grounded in a shared history and robust humanitarian and cultural connections. Yilmaz shared these sentiments during a reception hosted by Romanian Ambassador to Ankara, Stefan Alexandru Tinca, highlighting the mutual desire to strengthen relations across various sectors such as security, economy, and culture. According to Anadolu Agency, Yilmaz reflected on the productive year in Turkish-Romanian relations, referencing his visit to Romania in April for the Trkiye-Romania High Level Strategic Cooperation Council meeting. During this visit, he engaged in fruitful discussions with Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, who reciprocated with a visit to Trkiye in May. Yilmaz also mentioned the recent visit of Turkish Trade Minister Omer Bolat to Bucharest for the 2nd Term Meeting of the Trkiye-Romania Economic and Trade Joint Commiss ion. The meeting culminated in a joint protocol that enhanced new cooperation opportunities, notably in the defense industry, energy, green transformation, and digital economy. Yilmaz underscored the ongoing collaboration with Romania concerning EU relations, particularly in modernizing the customs union. He noted that the trade volume with Romania, Trkiye's largest trade partner in Southeastern Europe, exceeds $10 billion, with a target to reach $15 billion. Turkish investments in Romania are currently around $8 billion, with growing interest from Turkish investors. He highlighted the significant role of Turkish companies in Romanian infrastructure projects, emphasizing the mutual benefits and increased future cooperation between the business communities of both nations. Yilmaz also pointed out the positive momentum in bilateral relations, bolstered by regional cooperation. He reaffirmed the commitment to maintaining peace, prosperity, and stability in the region, referencing the operationalization of the 'Black Sea Mine Countermeasure Task Group' with Bulgaria. Furthermore, he acknowledged the special place of Turkish and Tatar communities in Romania, which serve as a bridge between the two countries. He praised the Romanian authorities for their inclusive approach towards these communities, who live peacefully and exercise their constitutional rights.