Defence Secretary discusses regional defence on Romania visit
Defence Secretary Michael Fallon visits Romania to discuss regional defence and ongoing allegiances.
Michael Fallon with Romanian Defence Minister Mircea Dusa
In the first bilateral visit to Romania by a UK Defence Secretary in over a decade, Michael Fallon has re-affirmed the UK’s relationship with the country, sending a strong message of support and maintaining Romanian backing to the UK in implementing NATO commitments.
At a time when Romania has committed to increase defence spending to 2% of GDP by 2017, the Secretary of State for Defence was keen to promote UK industry interests and position the UK as a partner of choice for future Romanian procurements.
Defence Secretary Michael Fallon, said:
Supporting and reassuring our partners on NATO’s Eastern flank is an important priority. So I’m delighted that my discussions went so well. I am particularly pleased to welcome the Romanian commitment to the NATO 2% target.
As an indication of the strength of our relationship, I am pleased to announce that a Royal Navy Type 45 Destroyer will be visiting Romania in the autumn.
The UK is seeking to help Romania modernise and reduce reliance on Russian legacy equipment through the Type 22 frigate upgrade programme which will enable the nation to further its military capability and increase its standing within NATO.