The Government adopted on Thursday a draft law for the ratification of the Agreement between the Government of Romania and the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine on cooperation in the area of prevention, limitation and elimination of the effects of emergency situations, signed in Bucharest on October 18, 2024.
According to a Government press release, the ratification of the Agreement extends the bilateral legal framework necessary for Romania and Ukraine to provide mutual assistance, or assistance to third states, upon request, in the event of an imminent or occurring emergency situation whose effects cannot be entirely eliminated through the efforts and means of the state whose territory is threatened or affected.
At the same time, it allows for rapid cross-border emergency interventions, offering concrete support to Ukraine for saving lives, as the civilian population is affected by the ongoing armed conflict.
„Forms of aid include specialist teams, equipment, humanitarian assistance, search-and-rescue operations, and technical expertise. The Agreement establishes the formation of a Joint Commission for coordinating, planning, and monitoring joint activities. It also facilitates the exchange of information, including risks with cross-border impact. The Agreement provides for the temporary evacuation of affected populations to the other state’s territory, with support for accommodation and medical assistance. Border transit procedures for teams, equipment, and essential aid are simplified, and clear rules are outlined for the use of aircraft in the transport of aid and intervention teams. Assistance is granted free of charge, except for certain specific costs (e.g., population evacuation). The Agreement also includes provisions for the protection of personal data and classified information,” the release reads.
The document is valid for an indefinite period and may be amended or terminated by written notification, the source adds.
The draft law adopted by the Government will be submitted to Parliament for debate and approval. AGERPRES