Ukraine and Romania have agreed to implement large-scale joint projects in the field of arms production amounting to €200 million under the European SAFE program. This agreement was reached during a meeting between Presidents Volodymyr Zelensky and Nicolae Ciucă in Bucharest and was formalized by the signing of several strategic documents.
This is reported by Finway
Signing of Strategic Agreements Between Ukraine and Romania
As a result of the negotiations, the presidents of both countries signed a declaration on strategic partnership, as well as a statement regarding joint production of defense products. Within the framework of the SAFE program, which Romania has joined, the parties plan to focus their efforts primarily on the production of drones necessary for Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
“One of the outcomes of the Ukrainian President’s visit to Romania was the signing of a document on joint production in the military-industrial complex and a clear figure from the SAFE program, which Romania has joined. To date, this is €200 million that will go towards joint production with Ukraine,” said Zhovkva.
SAFE Program: Investments in Europe’s Security
As is known, the European Commission has approved the SAFE (Security Action for Europe) program aimed at strengthening the defense potential of EU countries. The total budget of the program amounts to €150 billion, which includes low-interest loans for the purchase and production of military equipment. The repayment term for such loans is up to 45 years, and the interest rate is about 3%.
Romania has already received approval for its own investment plan and, together with Ukraine, is awaiting the disbursement of funds after the final approval of applications from all 19 participating countries in the SAFE program. Importantly, cooperation with Ukraine involves the use of €200 million for the production of modern drones and other defense equipment.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized that Ukraine’s security is an integral part of the security of the European Union, and therefore Ukraine will actively participate in relevant projects under the SAFE program.
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