The election of Nicușor Dan as the new President of Romania has sparked a wave of international responses, with leaders and diplomats around the world weighing in on the unexpected rise of the former mathematician and technocrat to the nation’s highest office.
French President Emmanuel Macron was among the first major EU leaders to offer congratulations, calling Dan “a committed European and a partner for a stronger, more united Europe.” In a message posted on social media, Macron emphasized Franco-Romanian cooperation in defense, education, and energy transition. “We are ready to work closely with President Dan to advance our shared priorities within the European Union.”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen congratulated Dan in a statement on Monday, describing his win as “a strong mandate for reform, transparency, and European values.” She added that the EU looks forward to “deepening cooperation with Romania on rule of law, climate goals, and economic development.”
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte tweeted that he ”had a call with Nicușor Dan to congratulate him on his election win. We have important work ahead to ensure our shared security through a strong NATO. Looking forward to working together, including in the run up to the NATO Summit in The Hague.”
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy tweeted his congratulations to Dan, calling him “a friend of Ukraine and an ally in our shared European journey.” Zelenskyy added ”We respect Romania and the choice of the Romanian people. This is a country on which much depends when it comes to security issues. We are deeply grateful for Romania’s contribution to protecting the lives of our people. It is important that support for Ukraine continues.”
Friedrich Merz, Chancellor of Germany, released a statement commending Dan’s “dedication to clean governance and democratic accountability.” Merz described Dan as “a voice of reason and reform in a region that is vital to Europe’s future.”
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also congratulated the newly elected Romanian president, describing his victory as “a clear democratic mandate that reflects the will of Romanian citizens.” She highlighted the “strong historical ties” between Italy and Romania, particularly the large Romanian community in Italy.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez welcomed Dan’s election as “a sign of democratic vitality and progressive change in Europe.” In remarks delivered during a press conference in Madrid, Sánchez praised Dan’s “commitment to transparency, equity, and European cooperation.”
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken issued a message of congratulations, praising the “peaceful and democratic transition of power” and calling Dan’s election “a testament to the strength of Romania’s democratic institutions.” The message also noted Washington’s interest in strengthening ties “on issues ranging from defense cooperation to anti-corruption efforts.”
Analysts predict a new era for Romanian politics
International analysts have framed Dan’s victory as a political watershed. “This marks a turning point for Romania,” said Dr. Anca Petrescu, a political analyst at the European Council on Foreign Relations. “It reflects a public appetite for integrity and efficient governance, and foreign partners are taking notice.”
While challenges remain – including managing Romania’s budget deficit, tackling corruption, and navigating EU rule-of-law standards – Dan’s presidency is expected to usher in a more technocratic and pro-Western approach.
