The second day of the meeting started with a briefing on EDA's priorities in 2014 and its annual report on member states' defence expenditures.

Defence ministers saluted the Agency's efforts to develop European projects such as aircraft refuel on flight, drones, cyber defence and others. On the same day, two other working sessions are scheduled for the meeting of Foreign Affairs Council in Defence Ministers Format: preparations for the European Council of December 2013 and EU missions and operations, focusing on EUTM Mali and Operation EUNAVFOR ATALANTA.

Talking of the European Council of December 2013, Minister Mircea Dusa reiterated the idea that this will be an event with a particular significance, namely the extended connection between the development of military capabilities and defence industry. One of the priority topics is EU's capability to act as a security provider, thus contributing to international peace and stability.

In this respect, Minister Mircea Dusa appreciated the importance of strengthening defence industry and the role of a competitive technological basis. 'Romania is particularly interested in measures meant to support small and middle-sized enterprises. Coherent measures taken at European level will contribute to consolidating the European technological and industrial basis and will ensure a fair competition', Romanian defence minister said.

MoND Press Office