Romania Welcomes EU Criticism, Pledges To Step Up Corruption Fight

Prime Minister Calin Popescu Tariceanu said the EC’s report on Romania would help the authorities identify solutions to still existent problems in the justice field.

“We are determined to continue our zero tolerance policy against those who use their public positions to get rich (…). We want citizens to feel that justice in Romania is fair and efficient,” Tariceanu said

He said the Commission’s report highlighted a series of positive aspects in Romania, which show the country is on the right path to move forward into the European Union.

However, Romania still faces problems and the criticism voiced by the authorities in Brussels would “motivate” the country to carry on reform in the justice field, Tariceanu said.

He also urged political parties to adopt “constructive speech” regarding corruption issues.

Despite the criticism, Romania managed to avoid sanctions from the authorities in Brussels, unlike its fellow newcomer Bulgaria.