Dutch ForMin Stef Blok: Europe's values need to be focused on human rights

Dutch Foreign Affairs Minister Stef Block stated on Monday upon meeting his Romanian counterpart Teodor Melescanu that his country upholds the priorities Romania has set for itself during the presidency of the Council of the European Union, in view of promoting the EU's values and also underscored that these values must focus on human rights. 

The Dutch minister noticed our country will take over the presidency of the Council of the Council of the EU "at a very important moment in Europe and around the globe" mentioning in this regard Brexit, migration, negotiations on the multiannual financial framework, elections for the European Parliament and the setting up of a new European Commission. 

Hence, an important moment for Romania and for the European Union. The Netherlands has confidence that Romania will commit itself to contributing with everything necessary during its presidency. One of the presidency's priorities, of course, refers to the values of the European Union. The Netherlands upholds these priorities, priorities related to the rule of law. We must respect these values for Europe and for all member states. The Netherlands will support all these initiatives, but at the same time, Europe's values must be focused on human rights. We have to respect the same rights for everybody. We must guarantee equal rights for all the communities in Romania," Stef Blok told a press statement at the seat of the Foreign Affairs Ministry (MAE). 

Stef Blok appreciated that his visit represents an excellent opportunity to intensify the political dialogue and consolidate economic relations. In this regard, he noted that trade exchanges have gone up 15 percent in the last years. 

"There is room for a larger scale exchange. Additionally, we will work together in defence and security as NATO allies. (...) I am happy Romania upholds the Netherlands' initiative to enhance military presence in Europe," he further said.