The evolution of the state of security in the Western Balkans and the preparations for the future Bucharest Summit were the main topics of the talks, today, December 17, between the Defense Ministers from Romania and Holland, Teodor Melscanu and Eimert van Middlekoop during the official visit in the Kingdom of the Low Countries.

Defense Minister, Teodor Melescanu stressed on the fact that the evolution of the state of security in the Balkans has an important impact upon the security of the states in the entire region and can have repercussions at European level.


The countries from the Western Balkans must re-gain their identity under the EU aegis and the community must encourage them, support them and give them a clear signal they are on a good track stated Teodor Melescanu.

As for the participation in ISAF mission, the Dutch Defense Minister, Eimert van Middlekoop stated that, recently the Low Countries Parliament approved the prolongation of the Dutch military presence in Afghanistan till 2010.
At his turn, Teodor Melescanu stressed on the fact that Romania will increase its presence in Afghanistan, especially by sending within NATO Operational Mentor and Liaison Team (OMLT) the teams of trainers to recruit, form and train the Afghani armed forces.

The two Defense Ministers expressed their hope for in a short time the Afghani authorities to take over the responsibility on the security of the country.

Teodor Melescanu and Eimert van Middlekoop evaluated the stage of military cooperation between the two armed forces, too and they are optimists on the increase of the bilateral cooperation in 2008.

MoD Press Office