AGERPRES special correspondent to Lisbon, Portugal, Florentina Peia reports:

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis on Saturday discussed with his Portuguese counterpart Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa the war in Ukraine, once again thanking Portugal for its substantial contribution with troops to the NATO defence and deterrence posture on the eastern flank in Romania, and saying that he is counting on the continuation of such excellent co-operation.

„The presence of Portuguese troops in Romania is a strong signal of Portugal’s solidarity and support for strengthening Romania’s security,” Iohannis told a joint news conference with his Portuguese counterpart Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa at Belem Palace.

Discussions also covered the increased security risks in the Black Sea region as a result of the multiple Russian attacks against the Ukrainian ports on the Danube that seek to affect Ukraine’s ability to export its agricultural produce, Iohannis said, adding that enhanced defence measures have been taken and, through NATO, the protection of Romania’s territory and citizens is ensured.

„In this context, I agreed with the president to further develop our political and defence co-operation,” said Iohannis.

He added that Romania’s multidimensional support for Ukraine will continue as long as it takes, mentioning Romania’s commitment to further contributing to facilitating the transit of Ukrainian grain.

About Moldova, Iohannis indicated that he agreed with his Portuguese counterpart that through joint action the efforts to combat the vulnerabilities that Moldova is facing due to the war in Ukraine will be supported in order to support the stability and resilience of the neighbouring country.

The two officials also discussed the European agenda, including the enlargement policy of the European Union.

„On this occasion, I reiterated Romania’s support for the advancement of the enlargement process to include the partners in the East and the Western Balkans. I emphasised that we must together support the opening of the accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova by the end of this year,” said Iohannis.

Discussions also focused on revitalising the partnerships of the European Union with Latin America and the Caribbean, especially in the current geopolitical context. „I showed that Romania supports the conclusion of the commercial agreements currently being negotiated with Latin American countries,”said Iohannis.

The two presidents also discussed Romania’s accession to the Schengen area: „I emphasised that this objective remains a priority with Romania at the European level. I thanked Portugal for its continuous support in this file.”

President Klaus Iohannis on Friday started a four-day visit to Portugal.

He was scheduled for Monday to meet Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa; President of the Portuguese Parliament Augusto Santos Silva, and Portuguese lawmakers. He was also expected to call on the Palace of the Lisbon Municipality to meet local mayor Carlos Moedas.