Romania wants a Black Sea maritime security centre up and running quickly, defence minister Stefan-Radu Oprea said in Sofia after talks with Bulgaria and Turkey. He said the centre is part of the EU's approach to the region.
The three countries reached a general agreement on measures in the Black Sea on the day of the meeting. In Sofia they discussed sharing more information, getting more data on conditions at sea, and closer co-ordination between their navies and coastal authorities, in line with each country's own responsibilities.
What happened before: Defence ministers of Bulgaria, Romania and Turkey to meet in Sofia
Romania is building up its ability to watch the sea, give early warning, counter drones and clear sea mines. The aim is safe access to ports and protection of critical infrastructure, including energy sites in Romania's exclusive economic zone.
Six drones have been shot down over Romania this year during air-policing missions. "These incidents show our armed forces can react fast and are ready to operate," Oprea said. He said the cases also show that surveillance and defence capabilities need constant adapting.
The minister also pointed to attacks on merchant ships: "Attacks on merchant ships further increase this risk and call for a co-ordinated response, both in the air and at sea."
Oprea said the Black Sea naval mine-countermeasures group is a good example and is already a solid base for stronger maritime security. He added that the Sofia meeting offers a chance to line up national efforts further and strengthen regional co-operation.
The three-way talks will continue, so that concrete steps can be taken to prevent escalation, protect human life and keep civilian activity in the Black Sea safe.