Balkanalysis.com

Notable Public Figures

Traian Băsescu, President

Mihai Răzvan Ungureanu, Prime Minister

Gabriel Berca, Interior Minister

Bogdan Drăgoi, Finance Minister

Cristian Diaconescu, Foreign Minister

Gabriel Oprea, Defense Minister

Lucian Boda, Economy Minister

Cristian Predescu, Regional Development and Tourism Minister

Daniel I, Patriarch of the Romanian Orthodox Church

Brands & Distinctions

Tourism

Gymnastics

Car manufacturing

Major Industries

Constructions, car manufacturing, information technology, agriculture.

Key Trade Partners

Italy, US, CEFTA countries, Moldova

Main Airports

Bucureşti-Otopeni, Bucureşti-Băneasa, Timişoara, Cluj, Constanţa

Overview

Romania is a country of Latin language and culture on the banks of the Black Sea. A member of the EU since 2007, Romania is building a stronger European identity, all the while defining itself as an important regional partner. The beautiful landscapes and fast-growing industries make it a very attractive destination.The European membership had done much for the business environment and reduction of corruption, but the general view is that there is still room for improvement in that particular area.

Outstanding Issues

Romania has no border disputes with its neighbors, but ethnic repartition in Eastern Europe make it point of improvement in the relationships with its neighbors, be it Hungary, Ukraine or Moldova. Relations with EU have come under slight strain due to non-accession to Schengen Zone.

Forward Planning: Points of Interest

• Reducing the budget deficit and dealing with possible bailouts and privatizations in the current financial crisis
• EU relations, after the apparent failure to secure Schengen Zone entry
• Future business deals of environmental impact such as energy infrastructure and gold mining