Today, October 15th, 2024, at the MIA headquarters, Mr. Cătălin Predoiu, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Internal Affairs, met with H.E. Mr. Martin Košatka, the new ambassador of the Czech Republic in Bucharest.
During the discussions, the excellent character of the cooperation in the field of internal affairs between the two states was highlighted, the priority areas being the fight against organized crime, the fight against corruption and strengthening the states’ capacity to manage emergency situations, as they were also highlighted in the recent meetings in Prague between Minister Predoiu and his Czech counterpart, Vít Rakušan.
The Romanian official pointed out the common views regarding several topics of interest at the European level, such as the importance of internal security, the effective management of the migration phenomenon and the maintenance of unity between the EU member states, especially in the current geopolitical context characterized by the most diverse threats.
Regarding the subject of full accession to the Schengen area, Minister Predoiu appreciated the constant support offered by the Czech Republic, support reiterated by Minister Rakušan during the recent consultations in Prague. This support is all the more important at this time when the Romanian side is making efforts to complete the Schengen file by the end of this year.
Hereinafter, the Romanian dignitary presented the set of measures implemented by the national authorities aimed at strengthening cooperation and intensifying the exchange of information with the states in the region and with European partners. In addition, Romania has ongoing projects with all neighboring countries, with very good results, aimed at the organization of mixed patrols, exchange of experience, consolidation of information exchange, development of risk assessments. Romania has demonstrated that it secures European borders at a high level, applies all Schengen rules and legislation, uses all European systems, issues Schengen visas and has not registered a single syncope since the removal of air and sea border controls.
In conclusion, the two sides agreed to maintain bilateral dialogue at the same high level in order to develop cooperation in areas of common interest.
