Romanias Participation In Countering Terrorism

Romanian participation in the War on Terror, changes in National Defense policies and capabilities, and NATO's future were among the topics covered at a meeting with Romanian Minister of National Defense, Ioan Mircea Pascu, on Thursday, September 19, 2002 at CSIS. Minister Pascu discussed Romania's multinational involvement and its Homeland Security, including the development of new security structures and strategies, new missions and capabilities for the Romanian Armed Forces, and new concepts in regional cooperation. Romanian military involvement in Afghanistan alongside American forces was of particular interest and Pascu stated that this engagement was viewed as "a chance offered to Romania to prove itself to the United States." In addition, the changing role of NATO and the future of Romania within the organization was emphasized as an important element in the stabilization of South East Europe. Finally, Minister Pascu stressed the importance of regional cooperation and highlighted that Romania was making strides in enhancing communication and cooperation between bordering states.