The Minister of Defense, Sorin Frunzaverde and the chief of the Romanian General Staff, Admiral Gheorghe Marin congratulated, during the ceremony occurred today in Constanta, the crew of Regina Maria frigate, returned from NATO Active Endeavour operation, for their action in the trusted mission.

By the mission Regina Maria frigate fulfilled by between September and November 2006, in the Mediterranean Sea, Romania continues to be an active part in the efforts the North Atlantic Alliance makes in its fight against terrorism. Through me, the MoD leaders thank to the sailors that proved to be real ambassadors of Romania and to their families supporting them by their trust.

Regina Maria traveled more then 16,000 maritime miles in missions of oversee and control in the Mediterranean Sea, part of them in rough conditions of navigation, for the monitorization and interrogation of more then 400 ships and 60 airplanes.

Minister Frunzaverde and Admiral Gheorghe Marin stated that the development of the Navy is a priority and they are doing all the best for finding out the financial resources for the program of investments. The Defense Minister's desire is the purchase of four corvettes and four mine hunting ships for the increase of competitiveness and role of the Romanian Navy in the Black Sea geo-strategic region.

The guest at the ceremony were on board of Regina Maria and visited Mircea school ship.

MoD Press Office