Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Romania)
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Romanian: Ministerul Afacerilor Externe), often abbreviated as MAE, is the governmental department in Romania responsible for implementing the country's foreign policy and maintaining diplomatic relations with other states and international organizations.
Role and Responsibilities:
The Ministry's primary functions include:
- Representing Romania internationally.
- Protecting the interests of Romanian citizens abroad.
- Negotiating and concluding international treaties and agreements.
- Promoting Romania's economic, cultural, and political interests.
- Coordinating Romania's participation in international organizations.
- Providing consular services to Romanian citizens and foreign nationals.
- Developing and implementing Romania's foreign policy strategy.
- Managing Romania's diplomatic missions (embassies, consulates, etc.) abroad.
Organization:
The Ministry is headed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, a member of the Romanian Cabinet. The Minister is responsible for the overall direction and management of the Ministry. The Ministry is organized into various departments and directorates responsible for different geographical regions and thematic areas. These may include:
- European Affairs
- Global Affairs
- Bilateral Relations (divided by region, such as North America, Asia, etc.)
- Consular Affairs
- Public Diplomacy
- Legal Affairs
History:
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Romania has its roots in the 19th century, with the establishment of a dedicated department responsible for foreign affairs after the union of the Romanian Principalities. Its structure and functions have evolved over time to reflect Romania's changing role in the international arena, from the period of the Kingdom of Romania, through the communist era, to the present day as a member of the European Union and NATO.
Access:
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is located in Bucharest. Information about its activities, services, and contact details can be found on its official website.