Overview
Capital: Bucharest
Official EU language(s): Romanian
EU member country: since 1 January 2007
Currency: Romanian Leu (RON). Romania aims to adopt the euro once it meets the necessary conditions.
Schengen: Romania is currently in the process of joining the Schengen area.
Figures: Geographical size – population – gross domestic product (GDP) per capita in PPS
Political system
Romania functions as a semi-presidential republic with a prime minister serving as the head of government and a president as the head of state. Executive functions are shared between the government and the president. The country is divided into 41 counties and the municipality of Bucharest. Each county is governed by a county council responsible for local affairs and a prefect handling national matters at the county level.
Trade and economy
In 2020, Romania’s economy was driven by key sectors including industry (21.7%), wholesale and retail trade, transport, accommodation, and food services (19.7%), and public administration, defense, education, human health, and social work activities (16.5%).
Within the EU, 74% of Romania’s exports are traded, with Germany (23%), Italy (11%), and France (7%) as primary destinations. Outside the EU, 3% of exports are directed to Turkey and the United Kingdom.
Imports primarily originate from EU Member States, constituting 74%, with Germany (21%), Italy (9%), and Hungary (7%) being significant contributors. Beyond the EU, 6% of imports are sourced from China and 4% from Turkey.
Romania in the EU
European Parliament
Romania is represented by 33 members in the European Parliament.
Council of the EU
Romanian government representatives actively participate in Council meetings to adopt EU laws and coordinate policies.
Presidency of the Council of the EU
Romania held the Presidency of the Council of the EU in January-June 2019.
European Commission
Adina-Ioana Vălean represents Romania as the Commissioner nominated to the European Commission, overseeing Transport.
European Economic & Social Committee
Romania contributes 15 representatives to the European Economic and Social Committee, offering consultation on proposed laws affecting work and social situations.
European Committee of the Regions
With 15 representatives on the European Committee of the Regions, Romania ensures regional perspectives are considered in proposed laws.
Permanent representation to the EU
Romania maintains communication with EU institutions through its permanent representation in Brussels, ensuring effective pursuit of the country’s interests and policies within the EU.
Budgets and Funding
Romania’s contributions to the EU budget are determined based on its economic capacity, supporting various programs and projects across EU countries. The EU budget prioritizes the needs of Europeans as a whole.
