#Romania2019.eu/ President Iohannis says rule of law not negotiable

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis on Friday stated that the rule of law is not something to be negotiated. 

During a press conference he held jointly with the President of the European Commission, Jean-Claude Juncker, he said that, for him, the rule of law is not something that could be negotiated. Discussions on justice laws and codes in Romania are very complicated and they have already been going on for two years, said the head of state, adding that he hoped all those involved would prove they are wise enough to bring this discussions to a good end (...) according to the expectations of Romanians, the Venice Commission and GRECO. For Romania cannot build a justice system that is not compatible with the other justice systems in the EU and, more than that, by joining the EU, Romania wanted to become part of a space of values and to stay there. And this space of values also includes the principles and basic regulations of a rule of law, he said. 

He also showed that the discussion with respect to the rule of law will continue in Romania, while pointing out that he has no intention to deviate from the EU values and principles. 

The head of state underscored that the problems related to the domestic affairs must not affect the Romanian Presidency of the Council of the EU. 

This discussion, as everybody was able to notice, it doesn't improve, unfortunately, Romania's image and this is a problem that must be considered, he said, but, in respect to the European affairs, he was certain that together with the Government they will find the adequate approaches to reach the objectives that Romania established for its 6-month presidency of the Council of the EU. Our internal problems don't have to affect the approach that Romania has while holding the presidency, which aspect, said the head of state, all parties understood.