In recent days, NATO has placed a strong focus on its relations with Bulgaria, Romania and Moldova, underlining both the importance of its eastern flank and cooperation with partner countries. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte met with leaders from Bulgaria and Romania in Brussels, praising their contributions to collective defence, while the Chair of the NATO Military Committee, Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, visited Moldova to discuss regional security and deepen cooperation.
The meetings highlighted Bulgaria and Romania’s strategic roles within the Alliance, particularly in the Black Sea region, while also reaffirming NATO’s continued support for Moldova as a close partner facing ongoing security challenges.
NATO Secretary General commends Bulgaria for its contributions to the Alliance
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte met with Bulgaria’s Prime Minister in Brussels, praising Bulgaria’s strong commitment to the Alliance and its contributions to collective defence. He highlighted Bulgaria’s role in strengthening NATO’s eastern flank and its participation in Allied operations and missions.
The Secretary General also welcomed Bulgaria’s continued efforts to increase defence spending and modernise its armed forces, noting that such steps are vital in addressing the current security environment. Both leaders discussed regional security, including the situation in the Black Sea region, and reaffirmed their shared commitment to NATO’s core principles of collective defence and solidarity.
NATO Secretary General welcomes Romanian President to Headquarters
During a meeting at NATO Headquarters, Secretary General Mark Rutte welcomed the President of Romania, emphasising Romania’s strategic importance for the Alliance, particularly on the eastern flank and in the Black Sea region.
The discussions focused on strengthening NATO’s deterrence and defence posture, as well as ongoing support for Ukraine. The Secretary General praised Romania’s contributions to NATO missions and its role in hosting key Allied capabilities. Both sides reiterated the importance of transatlantic unity and continued cooperation in addressing evolving security challenges.
Chair of the NATO Military Committee visits the Republic of Moldova
Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, Chair of the NATO Military Committee, visited the Republic of Moldova to engage with senior political and military leaders on regional security issues and ongoing cooperation.
During the visit, discussions focused on the security situation in the region and NATO’s support for Moldova as a partner country (not a NATO member). The Chair reaffirmed NATO’s commitment to strengthening cooperation, enhancing resilience, and supporting Moldova’s defence capacity. The visit underscored the importance of continued dialogue and practical cooperation between NATO and Moldova in the face of shared security challenges.
Source: nato.int
