U.S. Ambassador to Bucharest Darryl Nirenberg, speaking on Wednesday ahead of the U.S. National Day reception, said that deterrence is not about the number of troops but about capabilities, and that capabilities in Romania remain strong.

He reiterated that the United States is committed to NATO, singling Romania out for being among the top countries allocating 2.5% of GDP for defence and among the states that supported NATO in adopting the 5% of GDP benchmark for defence.



The diplomat noted that Romania holds a key position between Asia and Europe, describing it as a bridge between both continents, with an educated people, with the skills needed for the economy of the future, and with the potential to be a revolutionary player in energy production.

On the bilateral defence relationship, Nirenberg emphasized Romania's leadership role, stating that it is important to remember that deterrence is not about troop numbers, but about capabilities, that capabilities in Romania, in the NATO context, remain strong, and voicing his belief that they will become even stronger.

He also underlined the strategic importance of the Black Sea region, stressing that the emotional reaction caused by the recent drone incidents is perfectly understandable. He said the Black Sea is an essential part of NATO's mission because it is where Europe and Asia meet, and that it has also proved crucial in Romania's role in facilitating the transit of Ukrainian grain during the war, helping prevent a food crisis.

In his view, 'the most American thing' is freedom - the idea that one should not be limited by the circumstances on one's birth, the colour of their skin, or by ethnicity.

Everyone in the United States has the opportunity and the freedom to follow their own path. Freedom has inspired Americans for centuries, but it has also inspired people around the world, including in Romania, 36 years ago, Nirenberg said, adding that the legacy of the U.S. Founders was built to endure, to guide, and to inspire. Carrying forth that legacy is our collective charge, he concluded.

This year's reception marks 250 years since the Declaration of Independence. AGERPRES (RO - writing by: Oana Ghita; EN - writing by: Simona Klodnischi)

Display count: 726