General Curtis M. Scaparrotti,  Supreme Allied Commander Europe,  greets military leaders during an official country visit to Bucharest,  Romania on Apr 18,  2018. (NATO Photo by SSgt Dan Bardsley GBRA OR7)

BUCHAREST  –  General Curtis M. Scaparrotti, Supreme Allied Commander Europe, participated in meetings with political and military leaders during an official country visit to Bucharest, Romania on Apr 18, 2018.  

During his exchange, General Scaparrotti recognised the country's continuing contributions, including Multinational Divisional Headquarters South East (MND SE). Located in Bucharest, the command serves a key role in NATO's tailored Forward Presence defensive capability in the strategic Black Sea region.

"Romania is an influential and steadfast ally. With key assets based in the country such as NATO's Headquarters Multinational Division South East: HQ MNDSE in Bucharest is key in commanding forces deployed in the south-eastern part of the Alliance," said General Scaparrotti.  "And the Headquarters Multinational Brigade South East: HQ MN BDE SE in Craiova enhances the training and interoperability of allied forces." 

In talks with Romanian President Klaus Iohannis, General Scaparrotti spoke of Romania's commitment to the Alliance since their addition in 2004 as part of NATO's fifth enlargement. 

"NATO is grateful for Romania's contributions to our missions in Afghanistan and Kosovo where they are making a real difference, said General Scaparrotti.  "Romania's commitment to invest 2% in defence this year shows how committed you are to your security and to the security of our Alliance." 

At the conclusion of the visit, General Scaparrotti thanked Romania for their continuing efforts and their strong commitment to the Alliance during a meeting with the country's Chief of Defence, Lieutenant General Nicolae Ciucă.