Oana Țoiu argues that defense investments must develop local production and protect Romania from disinformation

Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Oana Țoiu presented Romania’s defense strategy and the role of military investments in economic development at the Atlantic Council in New York. She argued that Romania must strengthen its domestic defense production so that acquisitions made through the SAFE instrument and from the national budget generate jobs and transform the country into a supplier for other states.

Țoiu stated that military equipment should not be evaluated solely based on its technical characteristics. Whenever possible, acquisitions should be carried out together with strategic partners and contribute to the development of Romanian industry.

However, the minister warned that defense cannot be reduced to aircraft, tanks, and ships. In her view, neglecting education would leave Romania vulnerable to Russia’s disinformation strategies and the manipulation of public perceptions.

Oana Țoiu explained that investments in defense production can create a financial flow capable of supporting both the strengthening of military capabilities and the strategic investments necessary for the development of society. Her message was that security must be addressed both militarily and in the areas of education, information, and social resilience.