Romania's involvement in the Middle East
Romania's involvement in the Middle East

historical tradition and some recent challenges

Summary/Abstract: From the beginning of the '60s, Romania sought to identify and explore all opportunities of displaying its increasing independence vis-à-vis Moscow, the Middle East proving itself propitious to its endeavour. Romania's autonomous course in foreign affairs helped it to achieve influence in the Middle East and become a partner both to Arab states and to Israel. In light of communist Romania's relations with Middle Eastern countries, this paper seeks to identify ways in which Romania can best utilize this expertise, though acquired in dramatically different circumstances, so as to enhance its standing within the European Union. The events unfolding in the European Union's southern neighbourhood have challenged the fundamental assumptions of EU foreign policy and made clear the need to launch a comprehensive strategic debate regarding Europe's relative power and its current position in the international system. Romania should not only be an active participant at such a discussion, but it could also bring to the table its regional influence, if it manages to realistically adapt its level of ambition to its resources and location. A new strategic posture for Bucharest would be necessarily built upon its status of Black Sea riparian state and its interaction with the United States-Israel-Turkey triangle.

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