US Ambassador: Romania should set new long-term goals

US Ambassador in Bucharest Hans Klemm stated on Wednesday in Suceava that perhaps Romania should set new long-term goals, adding that, in his opinion, the country lacks a vision for the future. 

One thing I believe Romania is missing is a vision for the future, the US diplomat said. For example, I know that in 1990, after the Revolution, Romanians established in great numbers two objectives, the first to join NATO, in order to ensure its security and safety in the region, and the second to join the European Union, in order to join European states and the European market, Klemm explained. Since these two objectives were met, the first in 2004, by joining NATO, and the second in 2007, by joining the EU - and I am hearing this from many Romanians - there hasn't been any vision for Romania, for its future, for the future generations, the diplomat pointed out. Perhaps it is time for Romania to set a new objective for itself, Klemm concluded. 

The US Ambassador pointed out that through the partnership concluded with Bucharest authorities, the US want a strong, democratic and prosperous Romania. 

Further, referring to Romania's potential goals for the future, the US diplomat pointed out the country's opportunities for growth within the EU. Given that it is the sixth most populous country of the EU, Romania could set the goal of becoming the sixth richest country in the European Union in the next 20 years, or that of becoming as rich as France, Klemm stated. Once set, such an objective must channel all efforts towards its fulfilment, the US Ambassador added. 

The US high official also pointed out the fact that Romania is still in need of investments in infrastructure, in public administration, the healthcare system, as well as in its human resources.

Agerpres