Press Review - March 2, 2018

03.02.2018 By Oana Gavrila

Attacks On Justice Create A Negative Image For Romania, Says EC First Vice-President

Attacks on justice create a negative image for Romania, although the country’s judiciary is undoubtedly independent, European Commission First Vice-President Frans Timmermans said after a meeting in Bucharest with President Klaus Iohannis.

The meeting between the two officials tackled Romania’s judicial overhaul and the fight against corruption. According to a press release from the president's office, Iohannis stressed that he remains committed to observing the rule of law, guaranteeing the independence of the judiciary and supporting the fight against corruption, and mentioned that he aims for improved justice laws, as Romanians need “good laws, that would strengthen judicial independence and guarantee the functioning of the rule of law”.

President Iohannis also said that democracy has been significantly strengthened in Romania over the past years and that society’s civic spirit is becoming increasingly more active. He also underscored that the judiciary is fully independent and efficient and that he will make all efforts to ensure an independent justice system.

Timmermans said Romania has made important progress regarding the fight against corruption and the Cooperation and Verification Mechanism (CVM). He emphasized that, although there is firm commitment to lift the CVM before the incumbent European Commission completes its term, that goal will only be achieved once Romania fully meets all related conditions.

Timmermans also met with Lower Chamber speaker Liviu Dragnea, Senate chairman Calin Popescu-Tariceanu, Prime Minister Viorica Dancila and representatives of the Romanian judiciary.

New Tax Experiment: Govt Seeks to Merge 7 Tax Forms Into One

Prime minister Viorica Dancila said Thursday the government is putting up for public debate a draft emergency ordinance merging seven tax forms into one.

She added she encourages the online submission of the future single tax form. The Tax form should eliminate the requirement to pay taxes in advance on estimated income and instate a single payment deadline instead of five throughout the year.

US Raytheon Seeks Partnership with Aerostar Bacau

US company Raytheon, which makes Patriot missile systems, has inquired about parts and components that could be made by aircraft construction and repair company Aerostar Bacau.

The US defense contractor said in a press release this is an opportunity for Aerostar to supply parts for missile systems for Romania and other countries.

US Raytheon International Defence System and Aerostar signed a memorandum in October to collaborate in the maintenance and repair of Patriot missile defense systems.

Schools Stay Closed Friday in Bucharest, Nine Counties

Schools in Bucharest and nine counties in southern and southeastern Romania remain closed on Friday due to low temperatures, the Education Ministry announced.

Classes are suspended in counties Arges, Braila, Calarasi, Constanta, Dolj, Ialomita, Ilfov, Olt, Teleorman, and in capital Bucharest.