Romania’s dedication to allocating more than 2 percent of its GDP for defence remains crucial, Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu emphasized on Wednesday. He noted that these resources are being directed toward new equipment purchases and the modernisation of military infrastructure to address contemporary threats. Ciolacu spoke alongside interim President Ilie Bolojan and Defence Minister Angel Tilvar at a ceremonial wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, held in observance of Army Day on April 23.
Speaking on a day that also honours Saint George, a major feast in the Orthodox calendar, Ciolacu expressed his pride and gratitude: this is an opportunity to recommit to the men and women who safeguard Romania each day. He praised their performance in domestic duties and their role as Romania’s representatives in NATO and EU missions across the Western Balkans and Africa, calling them “true ambassadors” of the nation, especially in these turbulent times.
The Prime Minister highlighted that Europe’s security landscape is dominated by widespread conflicts and hybrid threats, making stability a shared priority. In particular, he pointed to Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine, which continues to unsettle the Black Sea area, a region of strategic importance linking Europe, Asia and the Middle East. He argued that these challenges demand a united, coordinated response, with Romania playing a key part in bolstering regional security.
Ciolacu reiterated Romania’s unwavering support for Ukraine, underlining that such backing is driven by both humanitarian solidarity and strategic interests. He made clear, however, that Romania will not deploy its troops directly into the Ukrainian combat zone.
“Our obligation is to persist, and indeed to intensify, our efforts to counter the risks we face today,” he said. “That is why maintaining a defence budget in excess of 2 percent of GDP, channelled into new acquisitions and infrastructure upgrades, is indispensable. Boosting investment in our national defence industry also means creating jobs, driving technological innovation, and ensuring that tomorrow our armed forces will be outfitted with domestically produced equipment.”
Turning to the servicemen and women present, the Prime Minister offered his heartfelt appreciation for their dedication. He saluted the countless nights spent on operations and the daily sacrifices made to protect the nation, describing them as the “bedrock of our defence” and symbols of loyalty and self-sacrifice. “Before me stand not merely uniforms, but sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, friends poured into service,” he said, expressing both admiration and respect.
He also paid homage to the generations of soldiers whose bravery and devotion forged Romania’s path to independence and sovereignty. “From celebrated heroes to those whose names we may never know, it was their sacrifice that laid the foundations of Greater Romania,” he reflected. “Because of them, we are an independent, sovereign people. They remain forever in our hearts and prayers.” He concluded with confidence that today’s military personnel will carry forward this legacy, ensuring Romania remains strong, united and esteemed. “I wish you health, success, and to keep making us proud,” he said.
