Romania approves participation in the Black Sea mine clearance initiative

Romanian lawmakers on Monday approved President Klaus Iohannis’ proposal for the country to take part in the Turkish initiative to clear the Black Sea of mines.

As a result of Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine, the threat of floating mines laid by both states has increased, affecting the safety of shipping and the population as “proven by the numerous incidents in the Black Sea, near Romania’s borders”, the Romanian president wrote in his letter.

In August, Turkey proposed establishing a naval mine clearance coalition in the Black Sea, the Mine Countermeasures Task Group Black Sea (MCM Black Sea).

From Romania’s point of view, forming such a task force, apart from addressing the concrete challenges in the Black Sea, is a way to enhance regional cooperation with neighbouring allies. It also provides an opportunity to seek the involvement of NATO and non-neighbouring allies in the security of the Black Sea.

The decision to extend invitations to non-neighbouring allies is based on Romania and Bulgaria’s limited naval capabilities. Iohannis recognised Turkey as the only participant with the necessary expertise to conduct mine clearance operations effectively.

Romania will participate in MCM Black Sea with a military vessel equipped with MCM capabilities and an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team on board, with a crew of up to 85 soldiers.

A large majority approved the President’s request. However, Senator Diana Şoşoacă, known for her pro-Russian stance, called for “Romania’s neutrality” in the ongoing conflict.

(Catalina Mihai, Sebastian Rotaru | Euractiv.ro)

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