Romania’s Talks With EC To Focus On Econ Crisis, Gas Issue, EU Funds – President

The head of state said the main topics for discussion have to do with “setting Romania’s priorities for 2009, especially since talks are also attended by officials of the new Government".

"Certainly, talks, besides Romania’s priorities, will focus on the European economic crisis and the solutions Romania’s sees to lower its effects,” Basescu said.

He added another subject matter will be the speeding up of the use of EU funds, as the European Commission decided in December to shorten the deadlines allowed for the use of these funds.

"We have to discuss with the president of the Commission how to do the same (simplify EU funds accessing procedures – e.n.) on a national level," Basescu said, adding Romanian laws leave room for procedures to exceed 90 days and they need to “be adapted to the need to access funds within 30 days and the requirements of the economic crisis".

Basescu also said talks will also include the Commission’s view on the gas crisis sparked by the dispute between Russia and Ukraine.

The head of state added the agenda includes Romania’s approach to the future structure of the European Commission.

"From this point of view, I can state Romania firmly keeps it previous stance and cannot accept not being represented by a EU Commissioner,” he said.

Basescu will attend a working lunch Monday in Brussels with EC president Barroso and will discuss the economic crisis, the transit of natural gas to Europe, and possibly security in the Middle East, the president’s office said.

The Romanian delegation also includes Prime Minister Emil Boc, deputy prime minister Dan Nica, economy minister Adriean Videanu, foreign minister Cristian Diaconescu and the head of the Department for European Affairs, Vasile Puscas.