President Nicușor Dan Says Romania Engaged in US–EU Talks on Critical Materials Mechanism
Bucharest, The Gulf Observer: President Nicușor Dan announced on February 17 during an interview with Radio România Actualități that Romania is participating in international discussions aimed at establishing a joint mechanism for the management of critical raw materials, in cooperation with the United States and the European Union.
The Romanian head of state stated that talks began following a recent visit to Washington by Foreign Minister Oana Țoiu. According to President Dan, representatives from the United States, several European partners, and the European Union have initiated discussions to create what he described as a “new world trade organization dedicated to critical metals.”
“The partnership will continue with both the United States and the European Union on this issue,” President Dan said, emphasizing Romania’s active role in shaping the proposed framework.
Regarding progress on potential domestic projects, President Dan noted that discussions are being coordinated by a private American company in collaboration with Romanian stakeholders, including Nuclearelectrica and the relevant operating site.
Romania is reportedly already cooperating with a major US-based company to reduce its reliance on critical minerals from China. According to statements cited by Digi24 and remarks by Energy Minister Bogdan Ivan, the American firm involved is believed to be Critical Metals Corp, which is associated with businessman Frank Timiș.
Minister Ivan highlighted that Romania possesses 16 of the 32 critical raw materials designated at the European Union level and ranks first within the bloc in terms of subsoil resources for rare earth elements and strategic minerals.
Discussions have also reportedly focused on a potential agreement between Critical Metals Corp and Nuclearelectrica to expand the uranium processing facility at Feldioara, located in Brașov County. The proposed development would transform the site into a plant capable of processing and refining rare earth elements extracted from Greenland by the US company.
The initiative reflects Romania’s strategic efforts to strengthen its position in the critical minerals sector while deepening cooperation with transatlantic partners.
