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Dramatic footage shows Bolivian landslide sweeping away houses

More than 300 police officers backed by two helicopters on Sunday mounted a massive search along Romania's Black Sea coast after 131 kilogrammes (286 pounds) of cocaine washed ashore, police said.

Police spokesman Georgian Dragan told AFP that 14 boats and several frogmen were also involved in the unprecedented search operation for more packets of the drug, which began arriving ashore on Friday.

Romania's organised crime unit urged local residents not to open packets appearing on the beach "whose contents could put their lives in danger".

On March 20, more than a tonne of cocaine packed into 36 plastic bags apparently from the same shipment were found in a boat that capsized in the Danube delta. Two Serbians were arrested in connection with that discovery.

Around 200 more kilos were plucked out of the Black Sea last Tuesday, police said.

Prosecutors evaluated the cocaine's purity at 90 percent and said it was worth hundreds of millions of euros.

Romania is a key transit point for cocaine originating in Latin America destined for western Europe.

Romanian police seized a record 2.5 tonnes of cocaine from Colombia in the Romanian Black Sea port of Constanta in 2016, with an estimated value of 600 million euros ($675 million).

More than 300 police officers backed by two helicopters on Sunday mounted a massive search along Romania's Black Sea coast after 131 kilogrammes (286 pounds) of cocaine washed ashore, police said.

More than 300 police officers backed by two helicopters on Sunday mounted a massive search along Romania's Black Sea coast after 131 kilogrammes (286 pounds) of cocaine washed ashore, police said. Police spokesman Georgian Dragan told AFP that 14 boats and several frogmen were also involved in the unprecedented search operation for more packets of the drug, which began arriving ashore on Friday. Romania's organised crime unit urged local residents not to open packets appearing on the beach "whose contents could put their lives in danger". On March 20, more than a tonne of cocaine packed into 36 plastic bags apparently from the same shipment were found in a boat that capsized in the Danube delta. Two Serbians were arrested in connection with that discovery. Around 200 more kilos were plucked out of the Black Sea last Tuesday, police said. Prosecutors evaluated the cocaine's purity at 90 percent and said it was worth hundreds of millions of euros. Romania is a key transit point for cocaine originating in Latin America destined for western Europe. Romanian police seized a record 2.5 tonnes of cocaine from Colombia in the Romanian Black Sea port of Constanta in 2016, with an estimated value of 600 million euros ($675 million).

Massive search launched after 130 kg of cocaine wash up on Romanian coast

The Romanian prime minister promised Sunday in Washington that her country would move its embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, breaking with both the European position and apparently with her own country's president.

Prime Minister Viorica Dancila made the announcement before the annual conference of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), an influential pro-Israel lobby.

Her stance would align Romania with the US position under President Donald Trump, and it came on a day when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was beginning a Washington visit to include an AIPAC appearance and a meeting with Trump.

Netanyahu subsequently tweeted his congratulations to Dancila for informing AIPAC "that she would act to complete the procedures needed to open the Romanian embassy in Jerusalem."

Nonetheless, it marked an awkward break with the position of the European Union at a time when Bucharest holds the EU's rotating chairmanship.

Adding to the uncertainty, Romania's centrist president Klaus Iohannis has opposed the move as a breach of international law. He has said that in any case, such a shift would require presidential approval.

Dancila nonetheless told applauding AIPAC members that "I, as prime minister of Romania, and the government that I run, will move our embassy to Jerusalem."

Netanyahu, who had called on his Romanian counterpart in January to announce the transfer, on Sunday welcomed her move.

"I congratulate my friend, the prime minister of Romania, Viorica Dancila, on her announcement at AIPAC that she would act to complete the procedures needed to open the Romanian embassy in Jerusalem," the Israeli leader tweeted.

But the announcement drew criticism from senior Palestinian official Saeb Erekat, who called it "a blatant violation of Palestinian rights, international law, and UN resolutions".

Erekat said the move "only contributes to eliminating the two-state solution".

He called on the European Union to take action over the decision and said the matter would be raised with the Arab League and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

During an April 2018 visit to Israel, Dancila had said she lacked the domestic support to make the move.

Jerusalem's status is one of the thorniest issues blocking any final settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Israel occupied east Jerusalem in the Six-Day War of 1967 and later annexed it in a move never recognised by the international community.

It considers the entire city its capital, while the Palestinians see the eastern sector as the capital of their future state.

The United Nations contends that the matter can only be settled between the Israeli and Palestinian people and that until such a resolution, countries should not shift their embassies to Jerusalem.

The Romanian prime minister promised Sunday in Washington that her country would move its embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, breaking with both the European position and apparently with her own country's president.

The Romanian prime minister promised Sunday in Washington that her country would move its embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, breaking with both the European position and apparently with her own country's president. Prime Minister Viorica Dancila made the announcement before the annual conference of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), an influential pro-Israel lobby. Her stance would align Romania with the US position under President Donald Trump, and it came on a day when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was beginning a Washington visit to include an AIPAC appearance and a meeting with Trump. Netanyahu subsequently tweeted his congratulations to Dancila for informing AIPAC "that she would act to complete the procedures needed to open the Romanian embassy in Jerusalem." Nonetheless, it marked an awkward break with the position of the European Union at a time when Bucharest holds the EU's rotating chairmanship. Adding to the uncertainty, Romania's centrist president Klaus Iohannis has opposed the move as a breach of international law. He has said that in any case, such a shift would require presidential approval. Dancila nonetheless told applauding AIPAC members that "I, as prime minister of Romania, and the government that I run, will move our embassy to Jerusalem." Netanyahu, who had called on his Romanian counterpart in January to announce the transfer, on Sunday welcomed her move. "I congratulate my friend, the prime minister of Romania, Viorica Dancila, on her announcement at AIPAC that she would act to complete the procedures needed to open the Romanian embassy in Jerusalem," the Israeli leader tweeted. But the announcement drew criticism from senior Palestinian official Saeb Erekat, who called it "a blatant violation of Palestinian rights, international law, and UN resolutions". Erekat said the move "only contributes to eliminating the two-state solution". He called on the European Union to take action over the decision and said the matter would be raised with the Arab League and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. During an April 2018 visit to Israel, Dancila had said she lacked the domestic support to make the move. Jerusalem's status is one of the thorniest issues blocking any final settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Israel occupied east Jerusalem in the Six-Day War of 1967 and later annexed it in a move never recognised by the international community. It considers the entire city its capital, while the Palestinians see the eastern sector as the capital of their future state. The United Nations contends that the matter can only be settled between the Israeli and Palestinian people and that until such a resolution, countries should not shift their embassies to Jerusalem.

Romania to move embassy to Jerusalem, pledges PM

Pope Francis will visit Romania for three days from May 31 to June 2, the Vatican announced on Friday.

"Welcoming the invitation of the president, state authorities and the Catholic Church in Romania, the Holy Father will make an apostolic journey to the country from May 31 to June 2, 2019," the Vatican statement said.

The statement said programme details would be revealed later.

The visit will be the second in quick succession the 82-year-old Argentinian makes to the region as he is due in Bulgaria, then Macedonia from May 5 to 7.

The leader of the Catholic Church is looking at a full schedule for 2019 having already pencilled in a February trip to Abu Dhabi and Morocco in March.

That will follow hard on the heels of World Youth Day, which the pontiff will attend in Panama in January.

Bulgaria, Macedonia and Romania are home to small Catholic minorities with all three nations overwhelmingly Orthodox.

Visiting predominantly Orthodox nations will reinforce the image Francis wishes to project of a church seeking wider dialogue with other branches of Christendom as well as other faiths.

Looking further ahead, Francis has said he hopes to visit Japan in 2019 and a trip to Madagascar has also been mentioned.

But the Vatican has yet to unveil which invitations from Catholic nations will be taken up over the next 12 months.

Pope Francis will visit Romania for three days from May 31 to June 2, the Vatican announced on Friday. "Welcoming the invitation of the president, state authorities and the Catholic Church in Romania, the Holy Father will make an apostolic journey to the country from May 31 to June 2, 2019," the Vatican statement said.

Pope Francis will visit Romania for three days from May 31 to June 2, the Vatican announced on Friday. "Welcoming the invitation of the president, state authorities and the Catholic Church in Romania, the Holy Father will make an apostolic journey to the country from May 31 to June 2, 2019," the Vatican statement said. The statement said programme details would be revealed later. The visit will be the second in quick succession the 82-year-old Argentinian makes to the region as he is due in Bulgaria, then Macedonia from May 5 to 7. The leader of the Catholic Church is looking at a full schedule for 2019 having already pencilled in a February trip to Abu Dhabi and Morocco in March. That will follow hard on the heels of World Youth Day, which the pontiff will attend in Panama in January. Bulgaria, Macedonia and Romania are home to small Catholic minorities with all three nations overwhelmingly Orthodox. Visiting predominantly Orthodox nations will reinforce the image Francis wishes to project of a church seeking wider dialogue with other branches of Christendom as well as other faiths. Looking further ahead, Francis has said he hopes to visit Japan in 2019 and a trip to Madagascar has also been mentioned. But the Vatican has yet to unveil which invitations from Catholic nations will be taken up over the next 12 months.

Pope Francis to visit Romania: Vatican

Starting out as a unit production manager in Romania`s film industry more than two decades ago, Ada Solomon felt she needed to punch above her weight.

But after fighting with the crew on set early on in her career, Solomon, now a producer of some of Romania`s most internationally renowned films, took the advice of an assistant director that she would get farther by staying calm and treating them as partners.

"It was perhaps the first lesson in movie production I ever got," Solomon told Reuters at the office of her production company, HiFilm. "Since then, this is how I`ve functioned with my teams."

Today, Solomon is one of Europe`s leading film producers and the woman behind some of the most critically acclaimed dramas of recent years, including Berlinale winners 'Child`s Pose'&nbsp;and 'Aferim!'&nbsp;and the Oscar-nominated 'Toni Erdmann.'

She is also at the forefront of an increasing number of female producers and directors working in Romania at a time when more established film industries are struggling with issues of diversity and inclusion.&nbsp;

The increasing role of women in Romania`s film industry is being showcased at the Making Waves Romanian Film Festival taking place in New York until Dec. 5.&nbsp;

Now in its 13th year, the festival is devoting a section to films directed by women, including this year`s Berlin Golden Bear winner 'Touch Me Not,'&nbsp;an exploration of intimacy by Adina Pintilie, as well as the thriller 'Moon Hotel Kabul', which won Anca Damian the best director prize at the Warsaw International Film Festival. Ten out of the festivals` 17 films were produced by Solomon.

The former communist country has emerged as a powerhouse of cinema over the last two decades and much has been made about the Romanian New Wave, a genre of naturalistic and unflinching films that have been consistently winning top prizes such as the Palme d`Or in Cannes and awards at the Berlin and Venice festivals.

"Over the last two years or so, the number of female directors has grown visibly," said Anca Damian, who first won praise for her 2011 animated feature 'Crulic – the Path to Beyond.'

"You can feel the wind of change. A decade ago, a woman had to make films for children. There were moments when you felt like you didn`t exist in the film community, you were just transparent," she said. "But I`ve always felt that what I wanted to say has pushed me forward."

Documentary filmmaker Mona Nicoara said Romania`s economic growth, which has potentially made funding more accessible also helped. There are more women working in the industry overall, from editors and cinematographers to camera operators and set designers.

"Barriers that used to exist are no longer in place, there used to be few female directors, few women in general in the industry," said Nicoara, whose documentary about the dissident poet Nina Cassian features at Making Waves.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Starting out as a unit production manager in Romania`s film industry more than two decades ago, Ada Solomon felt she needed to punch above her weight. But after fighting with the crew on set early on in her career, Solomon, now a producer of some of Romania`s most internationally renowned films, took the advice of an assistant director that she would get farther by staying calm and treating them as partners.

Starting out as a unit production manager in Romania`s film industry more than two decades ago, Ada Solomon felt she needed to punch above her weight. But after fighting with the crew on set early on in her career, Solomon, now a producer of some of Romania`s most internationally renowned films, took the advice of an assistant director that she would get farther by staying calm and treating them as partners. "It was perhaps the first lesson in movie production I ever got," Solomon told Reuters at the office of her production company, HiFilm. "Since then, this is how I`ve functioned with my teams." Today, Solomon is one of Europe`s leading film producers and the woman behind some of the most critically acclaimed dramas of recent years, including Berlinale winners 'Child`s Pose' and 'Aferim!' and the Oscar-nominated 'Toni Erdmann.' She is also at the forefront of an increasing number of female producers and directors working in Romania at a time when more established film industries are struggling with issues of diversity and inclusion. The increasing role of women in Romania`s film industry is being showcased at the Making Waves Romanian Film Festival taking place in New York until Dec. 5. Now in its 13th year, the festival is devoting a section to films directed by women, including this year`s Berlin Golden Bear winner 'Touch Me Not,' an exploration of intimacy by Adina Pintilie, as well as the thriller 'Moon Hotel Kabul', which won Anca Damian the best director prize at the Warsaw International Film Festival. Ten out of the festivals` 17 films were produced by Solomon. The former communist country has emerged as a powerhouse of cinema over the last two decades and much has been made about the Romanian New Wave, a genre of naturalistic and unflinching films that have been consistently winning top prizes such as the Palme d`Or in Cannes and awards at the Berlin and Venice festivals. "Over the last two years or so, the number of female directors has grown visibly," said Anca Damian, who first won praise for her 2011 animated feature 'Crulic – the Path to Beyond.' "You can feel the wind of change. A decade ago, a woman had to make films for children. There were moments when you felt like you didn`t exist in the film community, you were just transparent," she said. "But I`ve always felt that what I wanted to say has pushed me forward." Documentary filmmaker Mona Nicoara said Romania`s economic growth, which has potentially made funding more accessible also helped. There are more women working in the industry overall, from editors and cinematographers to camera operators and set designers. "Barriers that used to exist are no longer in place, there used to be few female directors, few women in general in the industry," said Nicoara, whose documentary about the dissident poet Nina Cassian features at Making Waves.

Female film directors and producers shine in Romanian New Wave

The European Union on Tuesday warned Romania to respect EU democratic values before it assumes the bloc's rotating presidency in January, or risk undermining its bid to join Europe's passport-free zone.

The European Commission, the EU's executive arm, has expressed concern about changes to Romania's penal code recently pushed through by the ruling Social Democratic Party which its critics say are unconstitutional.

During a debate in the European Parliament with Romanian President Klaus Iohannis, Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker warned Romania not to undermine its bid to join Europe's passport-free Schengen zone.

"I hope Romania joins the Schengen zone, but it must not mortgage that by turning away from the (European) principles on rule of law," Juncker said during debate in the European Parliament.&nbsp;

"I hope in Romania there is a consensus for the fight against corruption, otherwise the European Commission will have trouble with its recommendations and getting them adopted unanimously," he added.

To become a member of the Schengen zone, Romania needs a recommendation from the Commission and unanimous support from the other 27 EU member countries.&nbsp;

Romania's and neighbouring Bulgaria's bid to join the Schengen zone have been blocked since 2007.

During its tenure of the six-month presidency from January 1, Juncker suggested, Romania's recommendations on other subjects may also face trouble.&nbsp;

Several members of the European Parliament took Iohannis to task over what they see is the damage to the rule of law in Romania caused by the judicial reforms.

'Systemic threat'&nbsp;

Guy Verhofstadt, the leader of the ALDE liberal group in the parliament, also warned that the weakening of the penal code undermined the fight against corruption.

Verhofstadt urged Romania not to "follow the example" of Poland and Hungary for which EU bodies have launched actions that could lead to unprecedented sanctions for allegedly posing a "systemic threat" to the rule of law.

EU Commission vice president Frans Timmermans has repeatedly expressed his "concern" about some of Romania's judicial changes and asked clarification from Prime Minister Dancila in a letter sent earlier this month.&nbsp;

In June, 12 western countries warned that some of Romania's judicial reforms could "impede cooperation (with Romania) in international law enforcement."

Prosecutors have had some success in the clamping down on corruption in Romania, one of the EU's most graft-ridden country, but the government accuses them of overstepping their power.

After winning elections in late 2016, the Social Democrat-led government attempted to water down anti-corruption legislation, but abandoned the plans in face of the biggest wave of protests since the collapse of communism in 1989.

The Schengen area is one of the pillars of the European project, enshrining the fundamental right to free movement.

Twenty-two EU countries, plus non-EU Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Liechtenstein are part of Schengen. The six EU countries that do not participate are Britain, Ireland, Bulgaria, Romania, Cyprus and Croatia.

The European Union on Tuesday warned Romania to respect EU democratic values before it assumes the bloc's rotating presidency in January, or risk undermining its bid to join Europe's passport-free zone.

The European Union on Tuesday warned Romania to respect EU democratic values before it assumes the bloc's rotating presidency in January, or risk undermining its bid to join Europe's passport-free zone. The European Commission, the EU's executive arm, has expressed concern about changes to Romania's penal code recently pushed through by the ruling Social Democratic Party which its critics say are unconstitutional. During a debate in the European Parliament with Romanian President Klaus Iohannis, Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker warned Romania not to undermine its bid to join Europe's passport-free Schengen zone. "I hope Romania joins the Schengen zone, but it must not mortgage that by turning away from the (European) principles on rule of law," Juncker said during debate in the European Parliament. "I hope in Romania there is a consensus for the fight against corruption, otherwise the European Commission will have trouble with its recommendations and getting them adopted unanimously," he added. To become a member of the Schengen zone, Romania needs a recommendation from the Commission and unanimous support from the other 27 EU member countries. Romania's and neighbouring Bulgaria's bid to join the Schengen zone have been blocked since 2007. During its tenure of the six-month presidency from January 1, Juncker suggested, Romania's recommendations on other subjects may also face trouble. Several members of the European Parliament took Iohannis to task over what they see is the damage to the rule of law in Romania caused by the judicial reforms. 'Systemic threat' Guy Verhofstadt, the leader of the ALDE liberal group in the parliament, also warned that the weakening of the penal code undermined the fight against corruption. Verhofstadt urged Romania not to "follow the example" of Poland and Hungary for which EU bodies have launched actions that could lead to unprecedented sanctions for allegedly posing a "systemic threat" to the rule of law. EU Commission vice president Frans Timmermans has repeatedly expressed his "concern" about some of Romania's judicial changes and asked clarification from Prime Minister Dancila in a letter sent earlier this month. In June, 12 western countries warned that some of Romania's judicial reforms could "impede cooperation (with Romania) in international law enforcement." Prosecutors have had some success in the clamping down on corruption in Romania, one of the EU's most graft-ridden country, but the government accuses them of overstepping their power. After winning elections in late 2016, the Social Democrat-led government attempted to water down anti-corruption legislation, but abandoned the plans in face of the biggest wave of protests since the collapse of communism in 1989. The Schengen area is one of the pillars of the European project, enshrining the fundamental right to free movement. Twenty-two EU countries, plus non-EU Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Liechtenstein are part of Schengen. The six EU countries that do not participate are Britain, Ireland, Bulgaria, Romania, Cyprus and Croatia.

Romania urged to heed rule of law before assuming EU presidency

A referendum to change Romania's constitution to prevent same-sex couples from securing the right to marry failed to draw enough voters to validate the result on Sunday, after a campaign that led to a rise in hate speech against the gay community.

The vote has also been seen as popularity test of the ruling Social Democrat Party (PSD) that supported the change and whose attempts to weaken anti-corruption legislation have drawn criticism from the European Union's executive.

Data from the national election bureau showed voter turnout stood at 20.4 per cent when the polls closed at 1800 GMT, below the 30 per cent required for it to be valid.

The two-day referendum, which cost $40 million, aimed to change the constitution to define marriage as strictly between a man and a woman from the current gender-neutral "spouses."

Religiously conservative Romania, which decriminalised homosexuality in 2001 decades after neighbouring countries, bars marriage and civil partnerships for same sex couples.

Civil society group Coalition for the Family secured 3 million signatures to trigger the vote aimed at preventing gay couples winning the right to marry in the future.

The Coalition received backing from the Orthodox Church and other religions as well as all but one parliamentary parties.

"Romanians rejected being divided and hating each other, it is a victory for Romanian democracy and moreover, Romanians rejected the involvement of the Orthodox Church in the state’s secular affairs," said Vlad Viski of LGBT rights group MozaiQ.

"We believe politicians must now legalise civil partnerships for same-sex couples," he said at a party to celebrate the outcome.

Dozens of human rights groups had said a successful referendum would embolden further attempts to chip away at the rights of minority groups and push Romania onto a populist, authoritarian track.

They have encouraged people to boycott the ballot, with several companies and popular musicians and artists following. A library chain even offered a book discount over the weekend for those who wanted to stay in and read rather than vote.

In villages across the country, people were quoted saying they had better things to do, such as canning food and making wine.

"The PSD staked everything on the referendum, by associating with it and trying to capitalise on it," said Sergiu Miscoiu, a political science professor at Babes-Bolyai University.

"What remains is the fact that many citizens have associated the initiative with the PSD and that is why they boycotted it. Either way, it is a major sanction against the government."

Senior PSD member Codrin Stefanescu accused opposition parties and centrist President Klaus Iohannis of misinforming Romanians in the run-up to the vote.

PSD leader Liviu Dragnea, whose appeal against a criminal conviction in an abuse of office case starts on Monday, told reporters after voting "Yes" to the change on Saturday that Romanians had to decide the kind of country they wanted.

"We all know that for years we’ve been told others know what is best for us better than we do. I believe it is time we decide what kind of society and country we want to have and how we want to live in our country," Dragnea said.

Days before the vote, the government relaxed anti-fraud monitoring and limited options for challenging the result.

Romania ranks 25th out of 28 EU states based on legislation, hate speech and discrimination against LGBT people, an annual study by ILGA-Europe, an umbrella organisation advocating equality, showed.

A referendum to change Romania's constitution to prevent same-sex couples from securing the right to marry failed to draw enough voters to validate the result on Sunday, after a campaign that led to a rise in hate speech against the gay community.

A referendum to change Romania's constitution to prevent same-sex couples from securing the right to marry failed to draw enough voters to validate the result on Sunday, after a campaign that led to a rise in hate speech against the gay community. The vote has also been seen as popularity test of the ruling Social Democrat Party (PSD) that supported the change and whose attempts to weaken anti-corruption legislation have drawn criticism from the European Union's executive. Data from the national election bureau showed voter turnout stood at 20.4 per cent when the polls closed at 1800 GMT, below the 30 per cent required for it to be valid. The two-day referendum, which cost $40 million, aimed to change the constitution to define marriage as strictly between a man and a woman from the current gender-neutral "spouses." Religiously conservative Romania, which decriminalised homosexuality in 2001 decades after neighbouring countries, bars marriage and civil partnerships for same sex couples. Civil society group Coalition for the Family secured 3 million signatures to trigger the vote aimed at preventing gay couples winning the right to marry in the future. The Coalition received backing from the Orthodox Church and other religions as well as all but one parliamentary parties. "Romanians rejected being divided and hating each other, it is a victory for Romanian democracy and moreover, Romanians rejected the involvement of the Orthodox Church in the state’s secular affairs," said Vlad Viski of LGBT rights group MozaiQ. "We believe politicians must now legalise civil partnerships for same-sex couples," he said at a party to celebrate the outcome. Dozens of human rights groups had said a successful referendum would embolden further attempts to chip away at the rights of minority groups and push Romania onto a populist, authoritarian track. They have encouraged people to boycott the ballot, with several companies and popular musicians and artists following. A library chain even offered a book discount over the weekend for those who wanted to stay in and read rather than vote. In villages across the country, people were quoted saying they had better things to do, such as canning food and making wine. "The PSD staked everything on the referendum, by associating with it and trying to capitalise on it," said Sergiu Miscoiu, a political science professor at Babes-Bolyai University. "What remains is the fact that many citizens have associated the initiative with the PSD and that is why they boycotted it. Either way, it is a major sanction against the government." Senior PSD member Codrin Stefanescu accused opposition parties and centrist President Klaus Iohannis of misinforming Romanians in the run-up to the vote. PSD leader Liviu Dragnea, whose appeal against a criminal conviction in an abuse of office case starts on Monday, told reporters after voting "Yes" to the change on Saturday that Romanians had to decide the kind of country they wanted. "We all know that for years we’ve been told others know what is best for us better than we do. I believe it is time we decide what kind of society and country we want to have and how we want to live in our country," Dragnea said. Days before the vote, the government relaxed anti-fraud monitoring and limited options for challenging the result. Romania ranks 25th out of 28 EU states based on legislation, hate speech and discrimination against LGBT people, an annual study by ILGA-Europe, an umbrella organisation advocating equality, showed.

Romanian constitutional ban on same-sex marriage fails on low vote turnout

Romanians will vote at the weekend on whether to enshrine in their constitution that marriage must only be between a man and a woman in a referendum that has seen campaigners direct slurs at LGBT people and which activists said is open to fraud.

The conservative eastern European state already does not allow marriage or civil partnerships for same sex couples, nor does it recognise those performed abroad.

Regardless, Romanians will vote on whether to narrow the constitutional definition of marriage from a union of "spouses" at the initiative of a civil society group called the Coalition for the Family, which said the gender-neutral term could see gay couples win the right to marry in the future.

The vote needs a turnout rate of 30 per cent, or more than 5 million people, to be valid.

Dozens of human rights groups, which are encouraging people to boycott the ballot, have warned approval would embolden further attempts to chip away at the rights of minority groups and push the European Union state onto a populist, authoritarian track.

Days before the vote, the government relaxed anti-fraud monitoring and limited the options for challenging the result in contrast with regular elections, while the country's broadcasting regulator eliminated a cut-off date for campaigning.

"There are ... no efficient, applicable mechanisms to verify fraud for this referendum," independent think tank Expert Forum (EFOR) said, adding the conditions have created "a climate of distrust in the fairness of the process."

The vote is backed by the Orthodox Church and other religions and won support from all but one political party in parliament.

Some campaign posters and adverts urged people to vote "Yes" to defend family values or run the risk of gay couples stealing or adopting their children.

One advert said a "No" vote would enable a man to marry a tree.

"Many fear that what has happened in other countries, such as legalising marriage between a man and an animal, could happen here," the leader of Romania's ruling Social Democrat Party Liviu Dragnea told private television station Romania TV.

Romania decriminalised homosexuality in 2001, decades after neighbouring countries. It ranks 25th out of 28 EU states based on legislation, hate speech and discrimination against LGBT people, an annual study by ILGA-Europe, an umbrella organisation advocating equality, showed.

Romanians will vote at the weekend on whether to enshrine in their constitution that marriage must only be between a man and a woman in a referendum that has seen campaigners direct slurs at LGBT people and which activists said is open to fraud.

Romanians will vote at the weekend on whether to enshrine in their constitution that marriage must only be between a man and a woman in a referendum that has seen campaigners direct slurs at LGBT people and which activists said is open to fraud. The conservative eastern European state already does not allow marriage or civil partnerships for same sex couples, nor does it recognise those performed abroad. Regardless, Romanians will vote on whether to narrow the constitutional definition of marriage from a union of "spouses" at the initiative of a civil society group called the Coalition for the Family, which said the gender-neutral term could see gay couples win the right to marry in the future. The vote needs a turnout rate of 30 per cent, or more than 5 million people, to be valid. Dozens of human rights groups, which are encouraging people to boycott the ballot, have warned approval would embolden further attempts to chip away at the rights of minority groups and push the European Union state onto a populist, authoritarian track. Days before the vote, the government relaxed anti-fraud monitoring and limited the options for challenging the result in contrast with regular elections, while the country's broadcasting regulator eliminated a cut-off date for campaigning. "There are ... no efficient, applicable mechanisms to verify fraud for this referendum," independent think tank Expert Forum (EFOR) said, adding the conditions have created "a climate of distrust in the fairness of the process." The vote is backed by the Orthodox Church and other religions and won support from all but one political party in parliament. Some campaign posters and adverts urged people to vote "Yes" to defend family values or run the risk of gay couples stealing or adopting their children. One advert said a "No" vote would enable a man to marry a tree. "Many fear that what has happened in other countries, such as legalising marriage between a man and an animal, could happen here," the leader of Romania's ruling Social Democrat Party Liviu Dragnea told private television station Romania TV. Romania decriminalised homosexuality in 2001, decades after neighbouring countries. It ranks 25th out of 28 EU states based on legislation, hate speech and discrimination against LGBT people, an annual study by ILGA-Europe, an umbrella organisation advocating equality, showed.

Romanians to vote on constitutional ban on same-sex marriage

Priests protest in Romania in a rally voicing support for a referendum in Romanian marriage

Vice President M&nbsp;Venkaiah Naidu on Thursday hailed the contribution of the Indian diaspora in Romania, saying they are playing a key role in promoting Indian values in the country.

Addressing a group of the Indian community here, Vice President Naidu said, "Each one of you has become a part of Romania's unique fabric and its progress. There is a strong interest in Romania about Indian culture. All of you are playing important role in promoting Indian values."

The Vice President added that the Indian diaspora is acting as a bridge between the two countries to facilitate people-to-people ties.

He stated, "You have become a bridge between 2 countries and our people. The way of life, tradition, food, Ayurveda and yoga are playing a valuable contribution to our people-to-people ties between India and Romania."

Stressing on the bilateral relations, Vice President Naidu said that the ties have been warm, cordial and multi-faceted and that the common values of democracy, rule of law, freedom and economic complementarities make the two countries as natural partners.

Underlining the importance of his visit to the European country, the Vice President said, "This visit is a milestone due to the 70 years of the establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Romania and it also overlaps the centenary year of Romania, which is being celebrated with fervour."

Vice President Naidu further informed the community of the reforms taken by the Indian government in the last four years to give a new purpose and clarity of vision for inclusive development and setting new standards of governance in the country.

He elucidated, "We are working towards becoming a five trillion dollar economy by 2025. India has been ranked third in World Economic Forum list of most trusted governments. India has climbed 42 places in ease of doing business rankings last year. The digitalisation of economy and taxation reforms like Goods and Services Tax (GST), which is a transformational revolutionary taxation system we have adopted. There were some hiccups initially, but GST is now doing wonders. Government's revenue is increasing and it is being used for spending on development and welfare of the people."

Vice President Naidu underscored that the establishment of business companies by India and Romania and their investment and employment opportunities are contributing to socio-economic progress between the two nations.

Delving into the key measures taken by the government to improve the diaspora outreach, the Vice President said, "We have taken steps to enhance your role in connecting and developing your ties with us. We have taken key measures to eliminate barriers of your connect with India so that our government are connected to you at all times. The world's engagements with India is at a new level. The entire world is keen on India's growth story and happenings in the country. We are a diverse country and people, irrespective of caste or religion are living together harmoniously."

He added that the Indian community is not only cultural ambassadors but also playing a key role in influencing the policies of the government.

Vice President Naidu pledged to the diaspora to follow the rules and regulations of one's country, but not to forget the cultural ethos. He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has initiated several programmes such as Clean India, Skill India, Start-up India, demonetisation and GST to change the mindset of the people.

Vice President Naidu went on to say that if the current growth rate is maintained, then a New India, that is free from hunger, corruption, fear and poverty would be realised in the next five to ten years.

After the address, Vice President Naidu then emplaned for India after completing a week-long visit to Serbia, Malta and Romania, in an effort to strengthen bilateral cooperation with these countries. He is scheduled to reach New Delhi on Friday morning.&nbsp;

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Thursday hailed the contribution of the Indian diaspora in Romania, saying they are playing a key role in promoting Indian values in the country.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Thursday hailed the contribution of the Indian diaspora in Romania, saying they are playing a key role in promoting Indian values in the country. Addressing a group of the Indian community here, Vice President Naidu said, "Each one of you has become a part of Romania's unique fabric and its progress. There is a strong interest in Romania about Indian culture. All of you are playing important role in promoting Indian values." The Vice President added that the Indian diaspora is acting as a bridge between the two countries to facilitate people-to-people ties. He stated, "You have become a bridge between 2 countries and our people. The way of life, tradition, food, Ayurveda and yoga are playing a valuable contribution to our people-to-people ties between India and Romania." Stressing on the bilateral relations, Vice President Naidu said that the ties have been warm, cordial and multi-faceted and that the common values of democracy, rule of law, freedom and economic complementarities make the two countries as natural partners. Underlining the importance of his visit to the European country, the Vice President said, "This visit is a milestone due to the 70 years of the establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Romania and it also overlaps the centenary year of Romania, which is being celebrated with fervour." Vice President Naidu further informed the community of the reforms taken by the Indian government in the last four years to give a new purpose and clarity of vision for inclusive development and setting new standards of governance in the country. He elucidated, "We are working towards becoming a five trillion dollar economy by 2025. India has been ranked third in World Economic Forum list of most trusted governments. India has climbed 42 places in ease of doing business rankings last year. The digitalisation of economy and taxation reforms like Goods and Services Tax (GST), which is a transformational revolutionary taxation system we have adopted. There were some hiccups initially, but GST is now doing wonders. Government's revenue is increasing and it is being used for spending on development and welfare of the people." Vice President Naidu underscored that the establishment of business companies by India and Romania and their investment and employment opportunities are contributing to socio-economic progress between the two nations. Delving into the key measures taken by the government to improve the diaspora outreach, the Vice President said, "We have taken steps to enhance your role in connecting and developing your ties with us. We have taken key measures to eliminate barriers of your connect with India so that our government are connected to you at all times. The world's engagements with India is at a new level. The entire world is keen on India's growth story and happenings in the country. We are a diverse country and people, irrespective of caste or religion are living together harmoniously." He added that the Indian community is not only cultural ambassadors but also playing a key role in influencing the policies of the government. Vice President Naidu pledged to the diaspora to follow the rules and regulations of one's country, but not to forget the cultural ethos. He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has initiated several programmes such as Clean India, Skill India, Start-up India, demonetisation and GST to change the mindset of the people. Vice President Naidu went on to say that if the current growth rate is maintained, then a New India, that is free from hunger, corruption, fear and poverty would be realised in the next five to ten years. After the address, Vice President Naidu then emplaned for India after completing a week-long visit to Serbia, Malta and Romania, in an effort to strengthen bilateral cooperation with these countries. He is scheduled to reach New Delhi on Friday morning.

Indian diaspora helping to promote values in Romania: Naidu

World No. 1 Simona Halep punched her ticket to the Indian Wells semi-finals with a 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3 win over Croatia&#39;s Petra Martic on Wednesday.

The 26-year-old Halep improved to 18-1 on the season and is looking to win her second WTA Tour title of 2018.

Halep, of Romania, needed two hours and 23 minutes to put Martic away under taxing conditions as strong winds swirled around the main stadium court.

&quot;It was difficult conditions to play in today because of the wind,&quot; she said. &quot;It was tough to play, because the ball was really moving.

&quot;But I just tried everything. I tried also to push a little bit the ball and then to hit it. I tried to mix it up. Was not easy at all. For both of us it was difficult.&quot;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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.<a href="https://twitter.com/Simona_Halep?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Simona_Halep</a> finds the edge of the line after ???? this backhand! <a href="https://t.co/4SqPg4yVLF">pic.twitter.com/4SqPg4yVLF</a>
&mdash; WTA (@WTA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WTA/status/974172594378346496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Halep moves on to the semi-finals where she will face Japan&#39;s Naomi Osaka who beat fifth-seeded Karolina Pliskova 6-2, 6-3.&nbsp;

Halep is guaranteed to hold onto her No. 1 ranking at the end of this event after world number two Caroline Wozniacki was eliminated on Tuesday.

Halep blasted two aces and broke Martic&#39;s serve four times.

&quot;I just fought and that&#39;s maybe why I won because I refuse to lose,&quot; Halep said.

Halep won the final five games of the third set after being broken once and falling behind 3-1 early.

The turning point in the third set came for Halep after she won a challenge in the eighth game with Martic holding serve. On the very next point Martic hit a forehand wide as Halep took the game and a 5-3 set lead.

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Can you say <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SemiSimona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SemiSimona</a>?<a href="https://twitter.com/Simona_Halep?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Simona_Halep</a> recaps her hard-fought <a href="https://twitter.com/BNPPARIBASOPEN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BNPPARIBASOPEN</a> quarterfinal victory! <a href="https://t.co/vjsfbMHSOz">pic.twitter.com/vjsfbMHSOz</a>
&mdash; WTA (@WTA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WTA/status/974136663625687040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Halep then served for the match, winning five of the final six points after the challenge. &nbsp;

Halep said her early struggles in the final set were from nerves and frustration with the playing conditions.

&quot;I calmed myself down a little bit more, and I just was more focused on what I have to do, and not thinking that much about the wind and what is going on on court.&nbsp;

&quot;I just fought till the end, and I think that&#39;s why I could win.&quot;

Halep is seeking her second Indian Wells title after beating Jelena Jankovic in 2015.

In the evening session, world No. 44 Osaka broke Pliskova&#39;s serve six times in her 78-minute upset on the main stadium court.

&quot;I returned the ball well,&quot; said Osaka. &quot;She is one of the best servers on tour and I was able to break her quite a few times so I am really happy about that.&quot;

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/Naomi_Osaka_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Naomi_Osaka_</a> continues her stellar run at <a href="https://twitter.com/BNPPARIBASOPEN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BNPPARIBASOPEN</a>! 
 
Upsets Pliskova, 6-2, 6-3 to reach first Premier Mandatory semifinal of her career! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BNPPO18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BNPPO18</a> <a href="https://t.co/xH1njVqn3O">pic.twitter.com/xH1njVqn3O</a>
&mdash; WTA (@WTA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WTA/status/974150630322221056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Pliskova, who reached the quarter-finals at the Australian Open in January, smashed five aces but made six double faults.

Pliskova was trying to reach the semi-finals in this event for the third consecutive year.

&quot;Everything was a little bit off from my side,&quot; Pliskova said. &quot;She was playing very well. Hitting her spots, forehands, even the backhands.&nbsp;

&quot;I just battling all the way, even in serving and returning. I was definitely not feeling the best.&quot;

&nbsp;

Japan's Naomi Osaka outplayed fifth-seeded Karolina Pliskova to book a berth in the semi-final

World No. 1 Simona Halep punched her ticket to the Indian Wells semi-finals with a 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3 win over Croatia's Petra Martic on Wednesday. The 26-year-old Halep improved to 18-1 on the season and is looking to win her second WTA Tour title of 2018. Halep, of Romania, needed two hours and 23 minutes to put Martic away under taxing conditions as strong winds swirled around the main stadium court. "It was difficult conditions to play in today because of the wind," she said. "It was tough to play, because the ball was really moving. "But I just tried everything. I tried also to push a little bit the ball and then to hit it. I tried to mix it up. Was not easy at all. For both of us it was difficult." .@Simona_Halep finds the edge of the line after ???? this backhand! pic.twitter.com/4SqPg4yVLF — WTA (@WTA) March 15, 2018 × Halep moves on to the semi-finals where she will face Japan's Naomi Osaka who beat fifth-seeded Karolina Pliskova 6-2, 6-3. Halep is guaranteed to hold onto her No. 1 ranking at the end of this event after world number two Caroline Wozniacki was eliminated on Tuesday. Halep blasted two aces and broke Martic's serve four times. "I just fought and that's maybe why I won because I refuse to lose," Halep said. Halep won the final five games of the third set after being broken once and falling behind 3-1 early. The turning point in the third set came for Halep after she won a challenge in the eighth game with Martic holding serve. On the very next point Martic hit a forehand wide as Halep took the game and a 5-3 set lead. Can you say #SemiSimona?@Simona_Halep recaps her hard-fought @BNPPARIBASOPEN quarterfinal victory! pic.twitter.com/vjsfbMHSOz — WTA (@WTA) March 15, 2018 × Halep then served for the match, winning five of the final six points after the challenge. Halep said her early struggles in the final set were from nerves and frustration with the playing conditions. "I calmed myself down a little bit more, and I just was more focused on what I have to do, and not thinking that much about the wind and what is going on on court. "I just fought till the end, and I think that's why I could win." Halep is seeking her second Indian Wells title after beating Jelena Jankovic in 2015. In the evening session, world No. 44 Osaka broke Pliskova's serve six times in her 78-minute upset on the main stadium court. "I returned the ball well," said Osaka. "She is one of the best servers on tour and I was able to break her quite a few times so I am really happy about that." .@Naomi_Osaka_ continues her stellar run at @BNPPARIBASOPEN! Upsets Pliskova, 6-2, 6-3 to reach first Premier Mandatory semifinal of her career! #BNPPO18 pic.twitter.com/xH1njVqn3O — WTA (@WTA) March 15, 2018 × Pliskova, who reached the quarter-finals at the Australian Open in January, smashed five aces but made six double faults. Pliskova was trying to reach the semi-finals in this event for the third consecutive year. "Everything was a little bit off from my side," Pliskova said. "She was playing very well. Hitting her spots, forehands, even the backhands. "I just battling all the way, even in serving and returning. I was definitely not feeling the best."

Simona Halep to face Japan's Naomi Osaka in semi-final of Indian Wells

World number one Simona Halep of Romania quelled a tenacious Angelique Kerber fightback and saved two match points to reach her first Australian Open final with a 6-3 4-6 9-7 victory in a compelling scrap on Rod Laver Arena on Thursday (January 25).

A wildly unpredictable match veered one way, then the other, before Halep finally broke the German&#39;s resistance to claim victory on her fourth match point when her exhausted opponent fired a backhand over the baseline.

When Halep won the first five games it seemed the expected battle royal between two of the game&#39;s most ferocious competitors would turn into a damp squib.

But Kerber roared back and had two match points at 6-5 in a brutal deciding set before Halep turned it around with some brave hitting to seal victory in two hours and 20 minutes.

The 26-year-old plays Dane Caroline Wozniacki in Saturday&#39;s (January 27) final when both players will be gunning for their first grand slam title and the world number one ranking.

When Halep won the first five games it seemed the expected battle royal between two of the game's most ferocious competitors would turn into a damp squib.

World number one Simona Halep of Romania quelled a tenacious Angelique Kerber fightback and saved two match points to reach her first Australian Open final with a 6-3 4-6 9-7 victory in a compelling scrap on Rod Laver Arena on Thursday (January 25). A wildly unpredictable match veered one way, then the other, before Halep finally broke the German's resistance to claim victory on her fourth match point when her exhausted opponent fired a backhand over the baseline. When Halep won the first five games it seemed the expected battle royal between two of the game's most ferocious competitors would turn into a damp squib. But Kerber roared back and had two match points at 6-5 in a brutal deciding set before Halep turned it around with some brave hitting to seal victory in two hours and 20 minutes. The 26-year-old plays Dane Caroline Wozniacki in Saturday's (January 27) final when both players will be gunning for their first grand slam title and the world number one ranking.

Australia Open: Simona Halep beats Angelique Kerber in epic semi-final

Romania&rsquo;s Prime Minister Mihai Tudose announced his resignation on Monday after his Social Democrat Party (PSD) withdrew its support amid a struggle with the group&#39;s chairman.&nbsp;

The party decided after a meeting, which lasted more than five hours, not to back him in an overwhelming vote, making him the second PM to be ousted in seven months.&nbsp;

Tudose, who was appointed in June, and leader Liviu Dragnea had clashes when the PM asked his interior minister Carmen Dan to quit after accusing her of lying to him. However, she refused to leave.&nbsp;

Tudose said he was quitting &quot;with my head high&quot; just over six months after he took office.

Tudose told reporters after the party vote: &ldquo;They named me, they removed me. I take responsibility for my deeds and I do not regret anything in my actions (as premier).&rdquo;

He said he would confirm his resignation in writing to President Klaus Iohannis on Monday night.

Deputy Prime Minister Paul Stanescu will be nominated to serve in Tudose&rsquo;s place for an interim period of up to 45 days, officials said. Iohannis can endorse Stanescu or propose an alternative.

Dragnea said 60 members of the committee had voted to sack Tudose and four to retain him, with the rest abstaining.

The PSD, which has a comfortable parliamentary majority, will have to nominate a permanent replacement during that period and its nominee needs backing from Iohannis and will face a vote of confidence in parliament.

Dragnea said the committee would meet on Tuesday to discuss proposals for a replacement.

&ldquo;We want to avoid facing the same situation (replacement of a prime minister) for the third time,&rdquo; he told reporters.

Dragnea, whose party swept to an emphatic national election win in December 2016, is barred from becoming prime minister by a conviction in a vote-rigging case.

(With inputs from Reuters)

The party decided after a meeting, which lasted more than five hours, not to back him in an overwhelming vote, making him the second PM to be ousted in seven months.

Romania’s Prime Minister Mihai Tudose announced his resignation on Monday after his Social Democrat Party (PSD) withdrew its support amid a struggle with the group's chairman. The party decided after a meeting, which lasted more than five hours, not to back him in an overwhelming vote, making him the second PM to be ousted in seven months. Tudose, who was appointed in June, and leader Liviu Dragnea had clashes when the PM asked his interior minister Carmen Dan to quit after accusing her of lying to him. However, she refused to leave. Tudose said he was quitting "with my head high" just over six months after he took office. Tudose told reporters after the party vote: “They named me, they removed me. I take responsibility for my deeds and I do not regret anything in my actions (as premier).” He said he would confirm his resignation in writing to President Klaus Iohannis on Monday night. Deputy Prime Minister Paul Stanescu will be nominated to serve in Tudose’s place for an interim period of up to 45 days, officials said. Iohannis can endorse Stanescu or propose an alternative. Dragnea said 60 members of the committee had voted to sack Tudose and four to retain him, with the rest abstaining. The PSD, which has a comfortable parliamentary majority, will have to nominate a permanent replacement during that period and its nominee needs backing from Iohannis and will face a vote of confidence in parliament. Dragnea said the committee would meet on Tuesday to discuss proposals for a replacement. “We want to avoid facing the same situation (replacement of a prime minister) for the third time,” he told reporters. Dragnea, whose party swept to an emphatic national election win in December 2016, is barred from becoming prime minister by a conviction in a vote-rigging case. (With inputs from Reuters)

Romania PM Mihai Tudose resigns after losing support from party

More than 10,000 people braved biting cold to stage protests across Romania to denounce the left-wing government for backtracking on efforts to fight corruption.

The demonstrators want the withdrawal of proposed legislation that would overhaul Romania&#39;s justice system and reduce the powers of the respected anti-corruption directorate, the DNA.

Critics say the changes would dent progress in tackling graft, which Brussels has long complained about in the 10 years since Romania joined the European Union.

In Bucharest&#39;s central Victory Square, thousands gathered holding European Union and Romanian flags and shouted &quot;Resign&quot;, while branding the ruling Social Democrats (PSD) &quot;the red plague&quot;.

&quot;They are doing everything so that they can steal legitimately. They are changing the laws in their favour, not for the benefit of the country,&quot; said a 36-year-old who refused to give his name. &quot;Don&#39;t force us to leave our country,&quot; he said.

This week, Romania&#39;s prosecutor general Augustin Lazar denounced moves to &quot;weaken the independence of prosecutors&quot;.

The protests saw several thousand take to the streets of Bucharest. More than 2,000 people demonstrated in the central city of Sibiu and in western Timisoara.

The PSD returned to power after a thumping election victory last December but has had a rocky ride.

It backtracked on altering anti-corruption laws in February after they provoked the biggest protests since communist dictator Nicolae Ceausescu was toppled and executed in 1989.

The demonstrators want the withdrawal of proposed legislation that would overhaul Romania's justice system and reduce the powers of the respected anti-corruption directorate, the DNA

More than 10,000 people braved biting cold to stage protests across Romania to denounce the left-wing government for backtracking on efforts to fight corruption. The demonstrators want the withdrawal of proposed legislation that would overhaul Romania's justice system and reduce the powers of the respected anti-corruption directorate, the DNA. Critics say the changes would dent progress in tackling graft, which Brussels has long complained about in the 10 years since Romania joined the European Union. In Bucharest's central Victory Square, thousands gathered holding European Union and Romanian flags and shouted "Resign", while branding the ruling Social Democrats (PSD) "the red plague". "They are doing everything so that they can steal legitimately. They are changing the laws in their favour, not for the benefit of the country," said a 36-year-old who refused to give his name. "Don't force us to leave our country," he said. This week, Romania's prosecutor general Augustin Lazar denounced moves to "weaken the independence of prosecutors". The protests saw several thousand take to the streets of Bucharest. More than 2,000 people demonstrated in the central city of Sibiu and in western Timisoara. The PSD returned to power after a thumping election victory last December but has had a rocky ride. It backtracked on altering anti-corruption laws in February after they provoked the biggest protests since communist dictator Nicolae Ceausescu was toppled and executed in 1989.

Romanians stage anti-corruption protests

Romania&#39;s government fell Wednesday after the ruling party took the unusual step of passing a no-confidence vote in its own prime minister following internal power struggles.

The left-wing Social Democrat party (PSD) filed the motion against premier Sorin Grindeanu barely six months after winning an election.

The PSD unexpectedly withdrew its support for Grindeanu on June 14, accusing him of &quot;delays&quot; in implementing reforms in the European Union&#39;s second-poorest country.

Grindeanu however refused to resign and denounced powerful PSD boss Liviu Dragnea for seeking to &quot;concentrate all the power in his hands&quot;.

The 54-year-old, who led his party to a thumping poll victory in December, is barred from running for office because of a voter fraud conviction.

Nonetheless he continued to pull the government strings behind the scenes once Grindeanu became premier in January.&nbsp;

At first Grindeanu complied but recently began asserting his independence, which reportedly led to the current crisis.

Wednesday&#39;s no-confidence motion passed with 241 to 10 votes.

The PSD and its small ally, the ALDE party, are now expected to propose a new premier to centre-right President Klaus Iohannis.

Once nominated, the incoming prime minister will then have 10 days to secure a vote of confidence in parliament for his cabinet and policy plans.

Ahead of the vote, Iohannis had urged the government to quickly resolve the crisis.

Romania&#39;s economy has been doing well, enjoying the fastest growth rate -- 5.6 percent -- in the EU in the first quarter, while efforts to tackle corruption have begun to bear fruit.

But the country of 20 million inhabitants can ill afford political instability, with the International Monetary Fund and the European Commission warning more reforms are sorely needed.

It is the second major crisis to hit the PSD since it rode back into power in December, barely a year after being forced from office over a deadly nightclub blaze.

In February, Romania&#39;s largest protests since the fall of communism forced the government to drop a bill aimed at watering down anti-corruption laws.

Analysts say Grindeanu&#39;s fall from grace could be linked to his perceived failure to push through the controversial legislation, which could have allowed Dragnea to run despite his conviction.

&quot;Liviu Dragnea only wants one thing -- amendments to the anti-corruption laws&quot; that currently prevent him from becoming premier, former PSD member Alin Teodorescu recently told AFP.

The PSD was forced out in the wake of angry protests in 2015 over a nightclub fire in Bucharest that killed 64 people and was widely attributed to corrupt officials turning a blind eye to fire regulations.

&nbsp;

The ruling Social Democrat party (PSD) filed a no-confidence?motion against premier Sorin Grindeanu just?six months after winning an election

Romania's government fell Wednesday after the ruling party took the unusual step of passing a no-confidence vote in its own prime minister following internal power struggles. The left-wing Social Democrat party (PSD) filed the motion against premier Sorin Grindeanu barely six months after winning an election. The PSD unexpectedly withdrew its support for Grindeanu on June 14, accusing him of "delays" in implementing reforms in the European Union's second-poorest country. Grindeanu however refused to resign and denounced powerful PSD boss Liviu Dragnea for seeking to "concentrate all the power in his hands". The 54-year-old, who led his party to a thumping poll victory in December, is barred from running for office because of a voter fraud conviction. Nonetheless he continued to pull the government strings behind the scenes once Grindeanu became premier in January. At first Grindeanu complied but recently began asserting his independence, which reportedly led to the current crisis. Wednesday's no-confidence motion passed with 241 to 10 votes. The PSD and its small ally, the ALDE party, are now expected to propose a new premier to centre-right President Klaus Iohannis. Once nominated, the incoming prime minister will then have 10 days to secure a vote of confidence in parliament for his cabinet and policy plans. Ahead of the vote, Iohannis had urged the government to quickly resolve the crisis. Romania's economy has been doing well, enjoying the fastest growth rate -- 5.6 percent -- in the EU in the first quarter, while efforts to tackle corruption have begun to bear fruit. But the country of 20 million inhabitants can ill afford political instability, with the International Monetary Fund and the European Commission warning more reforms are sorely needed. It is the second major crisis to hit the PSD since it rode back into power in December, barely a year after being forced from office over a deadly nightclub blaze. In February, Romania's largest protests since the fall of communism forced the government to drop a bill aimed at watering down anti-corruption laws. Analysts say Grindeanu's fall from grace could be linked to his perceived failure to push through the controversial legislation, which could have allowed Dragnea to run despite his conviction. "Liviu Dragnea only wants one thing -- amendments to the anti-corruption laws" that currently prevent him from becoming premier, former PSD member Alin Teodorescu recently told AFP. The PSD was forced out in the wake of angry protests in 2015 over a nightclub fire in Bucharest that killed 64 people and was widely attributed to corrupt officials turning a blind eye to fire regulations.

Romania ruling left sinks own government after power tussle

Thousands of protesters braved the cold to march in Romania&#39;s main cities, angered by government attempts to water down anti-corruption laws. In the capital Bucharest, where a major rally is planned for today, around 3,000 people gathered at the seat of government despite sub-zero temperatures.

&quot;We are resisting, we aren&#39;t going away&quot; yelled the protesters, who are calling for the left-leaning Social Democrat government, which only took power in December, to stand down.

Another 8,000 people took part in protests in the rest of the country, according to the national Agerpres news agency.These included 3,000 in Timisoara, in the west and around 2,500 at protests in towns of Cluj and Sibiu.

Yesterday&#39;s demonstrations, the twelfth consecutive day of protests against the government, took place despite the administration backing down over a planned controversial decree which would have made abuse of power a crime punishable by jail only if the sums involved exceeded 200,000 lei (44,000 euros, $47,500 US).

The demonstrations, the largest since the ousting and summary execution of communist dictator Nicolae Ceausescu in 1989, have also continued despite the resignation on Thursday of justice minister Florin Iordache.

Romania joined the European Union in 2007 and Brussels has long taken Bucharest to task over slow progress dealing with corruption and organised crime.

The country has intensified the fight against corruption in recent years with the creation of a prosecutor attached to the DNA anti-corruption agency, which has become one of the most popular government agencies following the conviction of several ministers and senior officials.

Graft watchdog Transparency International ranked Romania below all but three of its fellow EU states in a January report based on public perception of the prevalence of corruption. Worldwide, the country ranked 57th.

A counter-demonstration in support of the government also took place in Bucharest yesterday, but mustered only a few hundred people in front of the presidential palace.

(AFP)&nbsp;

These are the largest demonstrations in the country since the ousting and summary execution of communist dictator Nicolae Ceausescu in 1989

Thousands of protesters braved the cold to march in Romania's main cities, angered by government attempts to water down anti-corruption laws. In the capital Bucharest, where a major rally is planned for today, around 3,000 people gathered at the seat of government despite sub-zero temperatures. "We are resisting, we aren't going away" yelled the protesters, who are calling for the left-leaning Social Democrat government, which only took power in December, to stand down. Another 8,000 people took part in protests in the rest of the country, according to the national Agerpres news agency.These included 3,000 in Timisoara, in the west and around 2,500 at protests in towns of Cluj and Sibiu. Yesterday's demonstrations, the twelfth consecutive day of protests against the government, took place despite the administration backing down over a planned controversial decree which would have made abuse of power a crime punishable by jail only if the sums involved exceeded 200,000 lei (44,000 euros, $47,500 US). The demonstrations, the largest since the ousting and summary execution of communist dictator Nicolae Ceausescu in 1989, have also continued despite the resignation on Thursday of justice minister Florin Iordache. Romania joined the European Union in 2007 and Brussels has long taken Bucharest to task over slow progress dealing with corruption and organised crime. The country has intensified the fight against corruption in recent years with the creation of a prosecutor attached to the DNA anti-corruption agency, which has become one of the most popular government agencies following the conviction of several ministers and senior officials. Graft watchdog Transparency International ranked Romania below all but three of its fellow EU states in a January report based on public perception of the prevalence of corruption. Worldwide, the country ranked 57th. A counter-demonstration in support of the government also took place in Bucharest yesterday, but mustered only a few hundred people in front of the presidential palace. (AFP)

Thousands of Romanians march against government

Romania&#39;s justice minister resigned on Thursday, becoming the first major political casualty of a government effort to roll back anti-corruption laws which backfired, sparking nationwide outrage.

The offending emergency decree issued last week was scrapped on Sunday in the face of the country&#39;s biggest protests since the end of communism in 1989. Those protests have continued, with many now calling for the entire left-wing government to quit.

The minister, Florin Iordache, defended the legislation, saying all his &quot;initiatives were legal and constitutional&quot;.&nbsp;

&quot;But despite that, public opinion did not consider it sufficient, and that&#39;s why I have decided to submit my resignation,&quot; the 56-year-old told reporters.

Hundreds of thousands of Romanians have protested over the past week, culminating in half a million people in the streets on Sunday, according to media estimates.

Iordache is from the ruling Social Democrats (PSD), which won a thumping election victory only in December. His successor has not yet been named.

Prime Minister Sorin Grindeanu&#39;s government easily survived a no-confidence motion on Wednesday thanks to its solid majority in parliament.

The proposed changes would have made abuse of power a crime punishable by jail only if the amount of money involved exceeded 200,000 lei (44,000 euros, $47,500).

On Thursday, a much smaller but fiery crowd of 2,500 still turned out to protest in central Bucharest, waving Romanian and European Union flags and holding placards reading &quot;We are fighting for principles and values&quot;.

Foreign Minister Teodor Melescanu sought to reassure the public Thursday that the government would listen and take their concerns into account when considering future legal amendments.

&quot;This process will take time,&quot; he added.

However the government is separately aiming to change the law to release 2,500 people serving prison sentences for non-violent crimes of less than five years.

Grindeanu has said the aim was to bring penal law into line with the constitution and to reduce overcrowding in prisons.

But critics see the move as a brazen attempt to let off the many lawmakers who have been ensnared in a major anti-corruption drive in recent years.

The head of the country&#39;s anti-corruption force told AFP in an interview that the fight against graft was far from being won, despite the government&#39;s withdrawal of the decree.

The &quot;danger is not ruled out&quot; because such attempts to change laws are likely to happen again, said Laura Codruta Kovesi, chief prosecutor of the National Anti-Corruption Directorate.

European Commission Vice President Frans&nbsp;Timmermans said Wednesday that after the recent &quot;incredible progress&quot;, Bucharest should not start &quot;running in the other direction&quot;.

The US State Department also expressed its deep concern. Corruption has long been a major problem since Romania joined the European Union as its second-poorest member in 2007.

(AFP)

The country's justice minister announced resignation, becoming the first major political casualty in governmet;s bid to push for pro-graft

Romania's justice minister resigned on Thursday, becoming the first major political casualty of a government effort to roll back anti-corruption laws which backfired, sparking nationwide outrage. The offending emergency decree issued last week was scrapped on Sunday in the face of the country's biggest protests since the end of communism in 1989. Those protests have continued, with many now calling for the entire left-wing government to quit. The minister, Florin Iordache, defended the legislation, saying all his "initiatives were legal and constitutional". "But despite that, public opinion did not consider it sufficient, and that's why I have decided to submit my resignation," the 56-year-old told reporters. Hundreds of thousands of Romanians have protested over the past week, culminating in half a million people in the streets on Sunday, according to media estimates. Iordache is from the ruling Social Democrats (PSD), which won a thumping election victory only in December. His successor has not yet been named. Prime Minister Sorin Grindeanu's government easily survived a no-confidence motion on Wednesday thanks to its solid majority in parliament. The proposed changes would have made abuse of power a crime punishable by jail only if the amount of money involved exceeded 200,000 lei (44,000 euros, $47,500). On Thursday, a much smaller but fiery crowd of 2,500 still turned out to protest in central Bucharest, waving Romanian and European Union flags and holding placards reading "We are fighting for principles and values". Foreign Minister Teodor Melescanu sought to reassure the public Thursday that the government would listen and take their concerns into account when considering future legal amendments. "This process will take time," he added. However the government is separately aiming to change the law to release 2,500 people serving prison sentences for non-violent crimes of less than five years. Grindeanu has said the aim was to bring penal law into line with the constitution and to reduce overcrowding in prisons. But critics see the move as a brazen attempt to let off the many lawmakers who have been ensnared in a major anti-corruption drive in recent years. The head of the country's anti-corruption force told AFP in an interview that the fight against graft was far from being won, despite the government's withdrawal of the decree. The "danger is not ruled out" because such attempts to change laws are likely to happen again, said Laura Codruta Kovesi, chief prosecutor of the National Anti-Corruption Directorate. European Commission Vice President Frans Timmermans said Wednesday that after the recent "incredible progress", Bucharest should not start "running in the other direction". The US State Department also expressed its deep concern. Corruption has long been a major problem since Romania joined the European Union as its second-poorest member in 2007. (AFP)

Romanian minister quits amid backlash against failed anti-corruption laws

Romania&#39;s Social Democrat-led government easily survived a no-confidence motion in parliament on Wednesday, three days after mass street protests forced it into an embarrassing U-turn over a graft decree.

Critics said the decree, which also drew rebukes from Romania&#39;s Western allies, would have turned back the clock on the fight against corruption in the ex-communist nation of 20 million people. The government rescinded the decree on Sunday.

&quot;I do hope that as of today we get back to work,&quot; Prime Minister Sorin Grindeanu told lawmakers before the vote.

The Social Democrats and their allies control nearly two-thirds of the seats in parliament after winning a December election. They abstained in Wednesday&#39;s vote, when 161 lawmakers backed the no-confidence motion and eight voted against.

The government, however, has been badly shaken by the protests, the largest in Romania since the 1989 fall of communism, and opposition parties vowed after Wednesday&#39;s vote to continue their close scrutiny of the ruling party`s actions.

One minister resigned last week saying he could not support the decree and the Social Democrats have said they are considering the position of Justice Minister Florin Iordache, the architect of the decree.&nbsp;

Party sources have told Reuters he may resign on Wednesday and Grindeanu said on Wednesday a decision on Iordache would be announced on Thursday.

Opposition deputy Catalin Predoiu said of the no-confidence motion: &quot;This is a warning signal that we managed to gather the votes of the whole opposition and it also shows that whenever the new government derails we will gather and sanction it.&quot;

Powerful Emotions

Grindeanu said his government would not consider any further initiatives similar to the rescinded decree &quot;that could awake powerful emotions in society without proper and wide debate&quot;.

The decree would have decriminalised a number of graft offences and effectively shielded dozens of public officials from prosecution for graft.

Romania remains one of the poorest and most graft-prone member states of the European Union, which it joined in 2007.

Before the debate, around a dozen protesters wrote &#39;RESIST&#39;&nbsp;in the snow that had fallen overnight in front of the government headquarters. But the number of people attending daily protests - which reached a quarter of a million on Sunday - has fallen sharply since the government`s climbdown.

Parliament must still endorse the government&#39;s decision to rescind the graft decree and it is expected to hold a session towards the end of the week.

On Wednesday, the Constitutional Court rejected challenges on procedural grounds brought against the rescinded decree by Romania&#39;s president and by the top magistrates&#39; council.

The court said it would reconvene on Thursday to consider a separate challenge brought by Romania`s ombudsman against the content of the decree.

(Reuters)

Romania has been badly shaken by the anti-graft protests, the largest in Romania since the 1989 fall of communism

Romania's Social Democrat-led government easily survived a no-confidence motion in parliament on Wednesday, three days after mass street protests forced it into an embarrassing U-turn over a graft decree. Critics said the decree, which also drew rebukes from Romania's Western allies, would have turned back the clock on the fight against corruption in the ex-communist nation of 20 million people. The government rescinded the decree on Sunday. "I do hope that as of today we get back to work," Prime Minister Sorin Grindeanu told lawmakers before the vote. The Social Democrats and their allies control nearly two-thirds of the seats in parliament after winning a December election. They abstained in Wednesday's vote, when 161 lawmakers backed the no-confidence motion and eight voted against. The government, however, has been badly shaken by the protests, the largest in Romania since the 1989 fall of communism, and opposition parties vowed after Wednesday's vote to continue their close scrutiny of the ruling party`s actions. One minister resigned last week saying he could not support the decree and the Social Democrats have said they are considering the position of Justice Minister Florin Iordache, the architect of the decree. Party sources have told Reuters he may resign on Wednesday and Grindeanu said on Wednesday a decision on Iordache would be announced on Thursday. Opposition deputy Catalin Predoiu said of the no-confidence motion: "This is a warning signal that we managed to gather the votes of the whole opposition and it also shows that whenever the new government derails we will gather and sanction it." Powerful Emotions Grindeanu said his government would not consider any further initiatives similar to the rescinded decree "that could awake powerful emotions in society without proper and wide debate". The decree would have decriminalised a number of graft offences and effectively shielded dozens of public officials from prosecution for graft. Romania remains one of the poorest and most graft-prone member states of the European Union, which it joined in 2007. Before the debate, around a dozen protesters wrote 'RESIST' in the snow that had fallen overnight in front of the government headquarters. But the number of people attending daily protests - which reached a quarter of a million on Sunday - has fallen sharply since the government`s climbdown. Parliament must still endorse the government's decision to rescind the graft decree and it is expected to hold a session towards the end of the week. On Wednesday, the Constitutional Court rejected challenges on procedural grounds brought against the rescinded decree by Romania's president and by the top magistrates' council. The court said it would reconvene on Thursday to consider a separate challenge brought by Romania`s ombudsman against the content of the decree. (Reuters)

Romanian govt survives no-confidence motion

Romania&#39;s ruling Social Democrats appealed for calm on Monday after withdrawing a decree widely condemned as reversing the country&#39;s anti-corruption drive, but protesters again took to the streets to demand the government&#39;s resignation.

On Sunday the government rescinded the decree, which would have shielded dozens of politicians from prosecution, following the largest demonstrations in Romania since the fall of communism in 1989.

Political analysts said the government &ndash; in power for barely a month &ndash; now faced an uphill task restoring shattered public confidence.

About 12,000 people gathered in front of government offices in central Bucharest on Monday evening - far fewer than the 250,000 seen the previous evening - to demand Prime Minister Sorin Grindeanu&#39;s resignation and snap elections.

&quot;This government has offered us a perfect demonstration of what it can do during its first 30 days in office. Conclusion: they must leave,&quot; said one protester named Franciscus, 30, who works in the banking sector.

A rival demonstration of about 4,000 people gathered for a second day outside the office of President Klaus Iohannis, accusing him of instigating the week-long anti-government rallies.

Iohannis is a former leader of the centre-right opposition who briefly joined an anti-graft rally in late January and has since called a referendum over anti-corruption reforms. He was due to address parliament at 1000 GMT on Tuesday.

Social Democrat Party (PSD) leader Liviu Dragnea, the chief target of the protesters&rsquo; ire, sounded a defiant note earlier on Monday after chairing a meeting of senior party officials.

Tense state

&quot;The government has no reason to resign, it was legitimately elected,&quot; Dragnea told reporters. &quot;As long as this tense state continues in Romania no one has anything to gain.&quot;

He signalled that the government could still seek, with parliamentary involvement, changes to the criminal code, and might seek the advice of foreign experts.

&quot;All the PSD can do is to urge calm. Besides the protesters in the square, there are other Romanians also shouting that their vote must be protected,&quot; he said, in reference to the party&#39;s big win in a December election.&nbsp;

However, the scenes of Romanians thronging Bucharest&#39;s broad boulevards and other cities every evening since Jan. 31 have clearly shaken the PSD, and they will not have gone unnoticed elsewhere across Eastern Europe, blighted by corruption and cosy ties between business and politics since the end of communism.

Romania, a country of 20 million people which hosts a U.S. ballistic missile defence station and is one of Washington&#39;s staunchest allies with troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, remains among the poorest, most corrupt members of the European Union.&nbsp;

A Social Democrat-led government was felled by street protests only 15 months ago following a nightclub fire that killed 64 people. That incident triggered an outpouring of public anger amid accusations of state negligence and corruption in failing to enforce fire-safety regulations at the club.

&quot;They (Romania&#39;s leaders) are deeply scared by these huge protests, unprecedented in 27 years,&quot; independent political commentator Cristian Patrasconiu said of the latest rallies.

&quot;This amounts to more than a simple step back. Any new move by them needs assessment. Everything looks suspicious.&quot;

The corruption decree, issued late in the evening of Jan. 31 by the cabinet without parliamentary debate, had been designed to decriminalise a number of graft offences, cut prison terms for others and narrow the definition of conflict-of-interest.&nbsp;

The government said it was merely bringing the criminal code into line with recent rulings by the Constitutional Court and an EU legal directive and also wanted to ease jail overcrowding.

But the opposition, anti-corruption prosecutors, magistrates and hundreds of thousands of Romanian protesters said it had been tailor-made to amnesty dozens of politically-affiliated public officials convicted or accused of abuse of office in one of the most corrupt members of the EU.&nbsp;

The European Commission and the United States both condemned the government&#39;s move as backtracking on anti-graft reforms and the widely-acclaimed work of anti-corruption prosecutors.&nbsp;

The government&rsquo;s decision to withdraw the decree will require the approval of parliament, where the PSD and their junior partners enjoy a big majority.

On Wednesday, the government also faces a no-confidence vote filed by the opposition Liberals and Save Romania Union.

Protesters have again taken to the streets to demand the government's resignation, barely a month after they came to power

Romania's ruling Social Democrats appealed for calm on Monday after withdrawing a decree widely condemned as reversing the country's anti-corruption drive, but protesters again took to the streets to demand the government's resignation. On Sunday the government rescinded the decree, which would have shielded dozens of politicians from prosecution, following the largest demonstrations in Romania since the fall of communism in 1989. Political analysts said the government – in power for barely a month – now faced an uphill task restoring shattered public confidence. About 12,000 people gathered in front of government offices in central Bucharest on Monday evening - far fewer than the 250,000 seen the previous evening - to demand Prime Minister Sorin Grindeanu's resignation and snap elections. "This government has offered us a perfect demonstration of what it can do during its first 30 days in office. Conclusion: they must leave," said one protester named Franciscus, 30, who works in the banking sector. A rival demonstration of about 4,000 people gathered for a second day outside the office of President Klaus Iohannis, accusing him of instigating the week-long anti-government rallies. Iohannis is a former leader of the centre-right opposition who briefly joined an anti-graft rally in late January and has since called a referendum over anti-corruption reforms. He was due to address parliament at 1000 GMT on Tuesday. Social Democrat Party (PSD) leader Liviu Dragnea, the chief target of the protesters’ ire, sounded a defiant note earlier on Monday after chairing a meeting of senior party officials. Tense state "The government has no reason to resign, it was legitimately elected," Dragnea told reporters. "As long as this tense state continues in Romania no one has anything to gain." He signalled that the government could still seek, with parliamentary involvement, changes to the criminal code, and might seek the advice of foreign experts. "All the PSD can do is to urge calm. Besides the protesters in the square, there are other Romanians also shouting that their vote must be protected," he said, in reference to the party's big win in a December election. However, the scenes of Romanians thronging Bucharest's broad boulevards and other cities every evening since Jan. 31 have clearly shaken the PSD, and they will not have gone unnoticed elsewhere across Eastern Europe, blighted by corruption and cosy ties between business and politics since the end of communism. Romania, a country of 20 million people which hosts a U.S. ballistic missile defence station and is one of Washington's staunchest allies with troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, remains among the poorest, most corrupt members of the European Union. A Social Democrat-led government was felled by street protests only 15 months ago following a nightclub fire that killed 64 people. That incident triggered an outpouring of public anger amid accusations of state negligence and corruption in failing to enforce fire-safety regulations at the club. "They (Romania's leaders) are deeply scared by these huge protests, unprecedented in 27 years," independent political commentator Cristian Patrasconiu said of the latest rallies. "This amounts to more than a simple step back. Any new move by them needs assessment. Everything looks suspicious." The corruption decree, issued late in the evening of Jan. 31 by the cabinet without parliamentary debate, had been designed to decriminalise a number of graft offences, cut prison terms for others and narrow the definition of conflict-of-interest. The government said it was merely bringing the criminal code into line with recent rulings by the Constitutional Court and an EU legal directive and also wanted to ease jail overcrowding. But the opposition, anti-corruption prosecutors, magistrates and hundreds of thousands of Romanian protesters said it had been tailor-made to amnesty dozens of politically-affiliated public officials convicted or accused of abuse of office in one of the most corrupt members of the EU. The European Commission and the United States both condemned the government's move as backtracking on anti-graft reforms and the widely-acclaimed work of anti-corruption prosecutors. The government’s decision to withdraw the decree will require the approval of parliament, where the PSD and their junior partners enjoy a big majority. On Wednesday, the government also faces a no-confidence vote filed by the opposition Liberals and Save Romania Union.

Romanian govt urges calm after graft decree climbdown as protests intensify

The bruised Romanian government has decided to repeal a legislation that was viewed by hundreds of thousands in the country as being soft on those ensnared in major corruption scandals.

Sorin Grindeanu, who came to power in December, announced the climbdown in a hastily-arranged press conference, sparking buoyant celebrations among the tens of thousands who attended the largest protests in the country since&nbsp;dictator Nicolae Ceausescu was toppled and executed in 1989.

The new government, of the left-wing Social Democrats (PSD), had intended to make abuse of power a crime only if the sum involved exceeded&nbsp;200,000 lei (44,000 euros, $47,500).

The legislation was due to become effective from February 10 -- a decree that was condemned by the critics because they said the government was attempting to free several PSD members who had been jailed on corruption charges in recent times.

The&nbsp;Grindeanu administration also wanted&nbsp;the parliament to review cases of some 2,500 graft convicts who have less than five years of jail sentence.

The new decree would have benefitted the head of Social Democrats,&nbsp;Liviu Dragnea. He was banned by law to become the prime minister of the country after the court found him guilty of vote-rigging in 2016. He was slapped with a two-year prison sentence for the violation.

The government&#39;s decision to go easy on the corrupt was also slammed by the US, who had said that new decree would &quot;undermine the rule of law&quot;.

But government, in its defence, had said that they were planning to put the legislation into force to avoid overcrowding of prisons and to bring penal law in line with the constitution.

Speaking to reporters,&nbsp;Grindeanu said his decision was &quot;not to divide Romania&quot;, with his comments coming in the backdrop of mass protests for the fifth consecutive night.

On Friday night there were between 200,000 and 250,000 people demonstrating around the country, and on Wednesday as many as 300,000 according to estimates by Romanian media.

On Saturday, Grindeanu said that the penal code still had to be fixed but that a bill would be sent to parliament &quot;as soon as possible&quot; and the proposed 200,000-lei limit would probably be scrapped.

The PSD has only just returned to power after handsomely winning elections on December 11 promising to boost salaries and pensions in a country where one in four people lives in poverty.

This was barely a year after public anger over a deadly nightclub blaze, blamed on corrupt officials turning a blind eye to fire regulations, drove the PSD-led government from office.

(WION with inputs from AFP)

The Sorin Grindeanu administration wanted to pardon people in power who accepted sums of money not exceeding $47,500

The bruised Romanian government has decided to repeal a legislation that was viewed by hundreds of thousands in the country as being soft on those ensnared in major corruption scandals. Sorin Grindeanu, who came to power in December, announced the climbdown in a hastily-arranged press conference, sparking buoyant celebrations among the tens of thousands who attended the largest protests in the country since dictator Nicolae Ceausescu was toppled and executed in 1989. The new government, of the left-wing Social Democrats (PSD), had intended to make abuse of power a crime only if the sum involved exceeded 200,000 lei (44,000 euros, $47,500). The legislation was due to become effective from February 10 -- a decree that was condemned by the critics because they said the government was attempting to free several PSD members who had been jailed on corruption charges in recent times. The Grindeanu administration also wanted the parliament to review cases of some 2,500 graft convicts who have less than five years of jail sentence. The new decree would have benefitted the head of Social Democrats, Liviu Dragnea. He was banned by law to become the prime minister of the country after the court found him guilty of vote-rigging in 2016. He was slapped with a two-year prison sentence for the violation. The government's decision to go easy on the corrupt was also slammed by the US, who had said that new decree would "undermine the rule of law". But government, in its defence, had said that they were planning to put the legislation into force to avoid overcrowding of prisons and to bring penal law in line with the constitution. Speaking to reporters, Grindeanu said his decision was "not to divide Romania", with his comments coming in the backdrop of mass protests for the fifth consecutive night. On Friday night there were between 200,000 and 250,000 people demonstrating around the country, and on Wednesday as many as 300,000 according to estimates by Romanian media. On Saturday, Grindeanu said that the penal code still had to be fixed but that a bill would be sent to parliament "as soon as possible" and the proposed 200,000-lei limit would probably be scrapped. The PSD has only just returned to power after handsomely winning elections on December 11 promising to boost salaries and pensions in a country where one in four people lives in poverty. This was barely a year after public anger over a deadly nightclub blaze, blamed on corrupt officials turning a blind eye to fire regulations, drove the PSD-led government from office. (WION with inputs from AFP)

Romania to repeal 'graft-friendly' decree after public fury

Albania&#39;s first win at Euro 2016 against Romania on Sunday was the ultimate display of coach Gianni De Biasi&#39;s one-for-all and all-for-one mentality. 
 
The small Balkan nation&#39;s 1-0 victory, which gave them their first three points, meant they still have a chance to reach the knockout phase as the third-placed team behind France and Switzerland. 
 
The encounter was never going to be a goal fest, both teams having qualified thanks to their tight defences. 
 
In his four years as coach, Italian De Biasi has tried various players to find the perfect combination and it seems he found it on Sunday. 
 
He left captain Lorik Cana on the bench despite his comeback from suspension following a red card in their opener. The Italian also brought in Migjen Basha for a packed five-man midfield. 
 
A hard-working 4-5-1 formation soaked up early Romanian pressure before gradually wrenching control as their opponents quickly ran out of ideas. 
 
The outstanding Ledian Memushaj was crucial in keeping the Romanian defence occupied while Armando Sadiku&#39;s header just before halftime was all the motivation the Albanians needed as the door for a last-16 spot cracked open. 
 
Desperately fighting off a late Romanian charge, De Biasi&#39;s players showed the determination that helped them qualify for their first tournament with man-of-the-match centre back Arlind Ajeti leading their defence. 
 
They were left with cramps but aware it was their team work that carried them to their first victory. Albania finally finds itself out of football obscurity with this first win against Romania in 68 years. 
 
It could not be more different for Romania coach Angel Iordanescu, whose 100th game on their bench as coach or assistant coach marked a quick end to their Euro hopes with yet another performance lacking guile and creativity. 
 
They may have scored less than Romania during the tournament, but their focus on defence proved decisive on Sunday as Iordanescu&#39;s men could not find the equaliser that would have given a slim chance to progress. 
 
(Reuters)

This was the side's first win at Euro 2016

Albania's first win at Euro 2016 against Romania on Sunday was the ultimate display of coach Gianni De Biasi's one-for-all and all-for-one mentality. The small Balkan nation's 1-0 victory, which gave them their first three points, meant they still have a chance to reach the knockout phase as the third-placed team behind France and Switzerland. The encounter was never going to be a goal fest, both teams having qualified thanks to their tight defences. In his four years as coach, Italian De Biasi has tried various players to find the perfect combination and it seems he found it on Sunday. He left captain Lorik Cana on the bench despite his comeback from suspension following a red card in their opener. The Italian also brought in Migjen Basha for a packed five-man midfield. A hard-working 4-5-1 formation soaked up early Romanian pressure before gradually wrenching control as their opponents quickly ran out of ideas. The outstanding Ledian Memushaj was crucial in keeping the Romanian defence occupied while Armando Sadiku's header just before halftime was all the motivation the Albanians needed as the door for a last-16 spot cracked open. Desperately fighting off a late Romanian charge, De Biasi's players showed the determination that helped them qualify for their first tournament with man-of-the-match centre back Arlind Ajeti leading their defence. They were left with cramps but aware it was their team work that carried them to their first victory. Albania finally finds itself out of football obscurity with this first win against Romania in 68 years. It could not be more different for Romania coach Angel Iordanescu, whose 100th game on their bench as coach or assistant coach marked a quick end to their Euro hopes with yet another performance lacking guile and creativity. They may have scored less than Romania during the tournament, but their focus on defence proved decisive on Sunday as Iordanescu's men could not find the equaliser that would have given a slim chance to progress. (Reuters)

De Biasi's Albania earn victory for the collective

Hosts France enjoyed an uplifting start to Euro 2016 as Dimitri Payet&#39;s superb last-gasp strike bailed out Les Bleus in a 2-1 victory over a stubborn Romania side at the Stade de France on a peaceful night in the capital on Friday. 
 
Starting the month-long tournament amid strikes to protest against a labour law and terror fears seven months after Islamic attacks on Paris killed 130, the national team lightened the mood thanks to Payet&#39;s 20-metre drive into the top corner. 
 
Didier Deschamps&#39; team seemed to be heading for a gloomy draw but a moment of magic from talismanic West Ham United player Payet left the home fans celebrating a memorable win on a serene Paris evening to get the finals off to a fine start. 
 
There were no incidents reported in and around the stadium, where there was a heavy security presence, or at the fan zone, where some 90,000 people were expected to watch the Group A game on giant screens near the Eiffel tower. 
 
French president Francois Hollande, who last November was rushed away from the stadium with German Chancellor Angela Merkel after suicide bombers detonated devices near the arena, was seen shaking hands with fans on his way out on Friday. 
 
Security was tight at the Stade de France and fans had been urged to arrive early to have time to go through a double security perimeter with two successive security checks under the watchful eyes of armed police with bulletproof vests. 
 
There were only cheers inside the stadium, however, as Payet wrapped up the three points following Olivier Giroud&#39;s headed opening goal for the hosts just before the hour that was cancelled out by Bogdan Stancu&#39;s penalty eight minutes later. 
 
A kitsch opening ceremony, featuring about 100 can-can dancers, a techno cover of Edith Piaf&#39;s &#39;La Vie En Rose&#39; and aerobatics by the Patrouille de France jets, launched the event. 
 
France had not played a competitive game in two years and Romania, who had only conceded twice in the qualifying campaign, were a stern reminder that Les Bleus need to be on their toes if they are to win a first title since their Euro 2000 triumph. 
 
&quot;Had we won by two or three goals that might have misled us slightly whereas the fact we won late in the day, that shows there are going to be no easy matches,&quot; man-of-the-match Payet told reporters. 
 
France, who top the group ahead of Saturday&#39;s clash between Albania and Switzerland, got off to a nervous start, looking a pale shadow of the team who breezed past their recent opponents. 
 
Captain Hugo Lloris had to make a point-blank save early on and France failed to manage a shot on target in the first half. 
 
After 57 minutes Giroud silenced his critics when he headed home from Payet&#39;s cross after Romania keeper Ciprian Tatarusanu completely missed the ball as he jumped with the France striker. 
 
Eight minutes later, however, Stancu coolly converted a penalty after Patrice Evra&#39;s clumsy foul on Nicolae Stanciu. 
 
However, the impressive Payet, who had been behind almost every France opportunity, was on hand to save the day. 
 
Collecting the ball from N&#39;Golo Kante, Payet cut inside and struck a vicious drive into the top corner, sending the crowd into raptures. 
 
&quot;It&#39;s quite easy in football when you can bang it into the top corner. It solves quite a lot of problems,&quot; said Deschamps. 
 
&quot;The opening match of a competition is bit like playing in a cup final so we were maybe just a little bit timid in the opening 25 minutes... we put four attacking players on the pitch to try to grind out the victory.&quot; 
 
France next take on Albania in Marseille on Wednesday after Romania play Switzerland in Paris. 
 
On Saturday England take on Russia in Group B amid fears of trouble between their fans in Marseille, where there was a stand-off between supporters on Friday, 18 years after England followers caused chaos in the Port city at the World Cup.

The hosts downed a stubborn Romanian side 2-1

Hosts France enjoyed an uplifting start to Euro 2016 as Dimitri Payet's superb last-gasp strike bailed out Les Bleus in a 2-1 victory over a stubborn Romania side at the Stade de France on a peaceful night in the capital on Friday. Starting the month-long tournament amid strikes to protest against a labour law and terror fears seven months after Islamic attacks on Paris killed 130, the national team lightened the mood thanks to Payet's 20-metre drive into the top corner. Didier Deschamps' team seemed to be heading for a gloomy draw but a moment of magic from talismanic West Ham United player Payet left the home fans celebrating a memorable win on a serene Paris evening to get the finals off to a fine start. There were no incidents reported in and around the stadium, where there was a heavy security presence, or at the fan zone, where some 90,000 people were expected to watch the Group A game on giant screens near the Eiffel tower. French president Francois Hollande, who last November was rushed away from the stadium with German Chancellor Angela Merkel after suicide bombers detonated devices near the arena, was seen shaking hands with fans on his way out on Friday. Security was tight at the Stade de France and fans had been urged to arrive early to have time to go through a double security perimeter with two successive security checks under the watchful eyes of armed police with bulletproof vests. There were only cheers inside the stadium, however, as Payet wrapped up the three points following Olivier Giroud's headed opening goal for the hosts just before the hour that was cancelled out by Bogdan Stancu's penalty eight minutes later. A kitsch opening ceremony, featuring about 100 can-can dancers, a techno cover of Edith Piaf's 'La Vie En Rose' and aerobatics by the Patrouille de France jets, launched the event. France had not played a competitive game in two years and Romania, who had only conceded twice in the qualifying campaign, were a stern reminder that Les Bleus need to be on their toes if they are to win a first title since their Euro 2000 triumph. "Had we won by two or three goals that might have misled us slightly whereas the fact we won late in the day, that shows there are going to be no easy matches," man-of-the-match Payet told reporters. France, who top the group ahead of Saturday's clash between Albania and Switzerland, got off to a nervous start, looking a pale shadow of the team who breezed past their recent opponents. Captain Hugo Lloris had to make a point-blank save early on and France failed to manage a shot on target in the first half. After 57 minutes Giroud silenced his critics when he headed home from Payet's cross after Romania keeper Ciprian Tatarusanu completely missed the ball as he jumped with the France striker. Eight minutes later, however, Stancu coolly converted a penalty after Patrice Evra's clumsy foul on Nicolae Stanciu. However, the impressive Payet, who had been behind almost every France opportunity, was on hand to save the day. Collecting the ball from N'Golo Kante, Payet cut inside and struck a vicious drive into the top corner, sending the crowd into raptures. "It's quite easy in football when you can bang it into the top corner. It solves quite a lot of problems," said Deschamps. "The opening match of a competition is bit like playing in a cup final so we were maybe just a little bit timid in the opening 25 minutes... we put four attacking players on the pitch to try to grind out the victory." France next take on Albania in Marseille on Wednesday after Romania play Switzerland in Paris. On Saturday England take on Russia in Group B amid fears of trouble between their fans in Marseille, where there was a stand-off between supporters on Friday, 18 years after England followers caused chaos in the Port city at the World Cup.

France start Euro 2016 party with win over Romania

Romania face mounting injury problems ahead of their decisive Euro 2016 tie with Albania following a bruising 1-1 draw with Switzerland on Wednesday. The result means Anghel Iordanescu&rsquo;s men can still qualify for the last 16 from Group A, provided they can win against tournament debutants Albania on Sunday. 
 
However, Romania&rsquo;s prospects appear grim after central midfielder Mihai Pintilii and talismanic left back Razvan Rat hobbled off with injuries at Parc des Princes on Wednesday night. 
 
&ldquo;Pintilii has some physical problems. I don&rsquo;t know if he will be ready for the next game,&rdquo; Romania coach Anghel Iordanescu told a news conference. &ldquo;Rat asked to be substituted. It&rsquo;s difficult to say whether he will play.&rdquo; 
 
Iordanescu, in his third stint in charge of the national team, said Rat&rsquo;s second-half replacement Steliano Filip was also hurt, while goal scorer Bogdan Stancu was suffering from muscle pains. 
 
Romania began well against Switzerland, taking the lead through Stancu&rsquo;s 18th-minute penalty, but they tired after half-time as the Swiss equalised via Admir Mehmedi&rsquo;s fierce 57th-minute half-volley. The Swiss continued to push for a winner that would have guaranteed Vladimir Petkovic&rsquo;s men a place in the knockout rounds, but it was not to be. 
 
&ldquo;We went through two completely opposite halves. First half we controlled the ball, linked play and &hellip; created some other chances,&rdquo; added Iordanescu. &ldquo;We suffered a lot during the second half and were facing huge pressure from Switzerland.&rdquo; 
 
Switzerland again lacked ruthlessness in front of goal, converting only one of their 19 attempts, of which six were on target. 
 
Striker Haris Seferovic, who has struggled at Eintracht Frankfurt this season, wasted two simple chances in the first half. The effort from the rest of the team also seemed patchy.&nbsp; 
 
&ldquo;I can&rsquo;t say we&rsquo;re very happy with the result,&rdquo; said man-of-the-match Granit Xhaka. &ldquo;It was one of the best performances our national team has shown, we have created so many chances but unfortunately we couldn&rsquo;t win because we didn&rsquo;t finish.&rdquo; 
 
A point against France in their final group match would lift Switzerland to five points, guaranteeing a top-two finish. 
(Reuters)

Central midfielder Mihai Pintilii and left back Razvan Rat had to hobble off the field

Romania face mounting injury problems ahead of their decisive Euro 2016 tie with Albania following a bruising 1-1 draw with Switzerland on Wednesday. The result means Anghel Iordanescu’s men can still qualify for the last 16 from Group A, provided they can win against tournament debutants Albania on Sunday. However, Romania’s prospects appear grim after central midfielder Mihai Pintilii and talismanic left back Razvan Rat hobbled off with injuries at Parc des Princes on Wednesday night. “Pintilii has some physical problems. I don’t know if he will be ready for the next game,” Romania coach Anghel Iordanescu told a news conference. “Rat asked to be substituted. It’s difficult to say whether he will play.” Iordanescu, in his third stint in charge of the national team, said Rat’s second-half replacement Steliano Filip was also hurt, while goal scorer Bogdan Stancu was suffering from muscle pains. Romania began well against Switzerland, taking the lead through Stancu’s 18th-minute penalty, but they tired after half-time as the Swiss equalised via Admir Mehmedi’s fierce 57th-minute half-volley. The Swiss continued to push for a winner that would have guaranteed Vladimir Petkovic’s men a place in the knockout rounds, but it was not to be. “We went through two completely opposite halves. First half we controlled the ball, linked play and … created some other chances,” added Iordanescu. “We suffered a lot during the second half and were facing huge pressure from Switzerland.” Switzerland again lacked ruthlessness in front of goal, converting only one of their 19 attempts, of which six were on target. Striker Haris Seferovic, who has struggled at Eintracht Frankfurt this season, wasted two simple chances in the first half. The effort from the rest of the team also seemed patchy. “I can’t say we’re very happy with the result,” said man-of-the-match Granit Xhaka. “It was one of the best performances our national team has shown, we have created so many chances but unfortunately we couldn’t win because we didn’t finish.” A point against France in their final group match would lift Switzerland to five points, guaranteeing a top-two finish. (Reuters)

Romania face injury woes after draw with Switzerland

Romanian legend Radu Beligan, who held the Guinness record as the world&#39;s oldest theatre actor, has died at age 97 in a hospital in the capital Bucharest, medical staff said. 
 
After a prolific career spanning more than 70 years, the star passed away in his sleep today, said the director of the Elias hospital, Dana Safta. 
 
Beligan last performed in April at the National Theatre in Bucharest, where he had played a lead role in Jean Anouilh&rsquo;s &#39;Number Number&#39; to sellout audiences since 2004. 
 
Born on December 18, 1918, Beligan made his debut in 1937 in Bucharest in a stage version of &#39;Crime and Punishment&#39;, a classic Russian novel written by Fyodor Dostoevsky. 
 
He went on to star in some 100 plays and films and became a well-known TV and radio personality.&nbsp;But he was also criticised in artists&#39; circles for his membership of the Central Committee of the Romanian Communist Party between 1969 and 1989. 
 
After the fall of communism, he was forced to step down as director of the National Theatre in 1990 after protests from his peers.&nbsp;In December 2013, the Guinness World Records awarded Beligan the title of &quot;oldest active theatre professional&quot;. 
 
The vote raised some eyebrows in Russia, where actor Vladimir Zeldin celebrated his 101st birthday earlier this year on stage in Moscow. 
 
(AFP)

After a prolific career spanning more than 70 years, the star passed away in his sleep today

Romanian legend Radu Beligan, who held the Guinness record as the world's oldest theatre actor, has died at age 97 in a hospital in the capital Bucharest, medical staff said. After a prolific career spanning more than 70 years, the star passed away in his sleep today, said the director of the Elias hospital, Dana Safta. Beligan last performed in April at the National Theatre in Bucharest, where he had played a lead role in Jean Anouilh’s 'Number Number' to sellout audiences since 2004. Born on December 18, 1918, Beligan made his debut in 1937 in Bucharest in a stage version of 'Crime and Punishment', a classic Russian novel written by Fyodor Dostoevsky. He went on to star in some 100 plays and films and became a well-known TV and radio personality. But he was also criticised in artists' circles for his membership of the Central Committee of the Romanian Communist Party between 1969 and 1989. After the fall of communism, he was forced to step down as director of the National Theatre in 1990 after protests from his peers. In December 2013, the Guinness World Records awarded Beligan the title of "oldest active theatre professional". The vote raised some eyebrows in Russia, where actor Vladimir Zeldin celebrated his 101st birthday earlier this year on stage in Moscow. (AFP)

World's oldest theatre actor dies at age 97

Inhabitants of a village in southern Romania kidnapped dozens of vulnerable young men and boys and pushed them into modern-day slavery, chaining, abusing and humiliating them, authorities said. 
 
Police carried out a large-scale raid on Berevoiesti, 170 kilometres (105 miles) north of Bucharest, on Wednesday and freed five people including two minors. They are investigating around 90 suspects. 
 
The captives were &quot;attached with chains and straps... beaten (and) humiliated&quot;, starved of food and fed on scraps, prosecutors from the Direc?ia de Investigare a Infrac?iunilor de Criminalitate Organizata ?i Terorism (DIICOT) organised crime investigation unit said. 
 
Around 40 victims were &quot;captured in public places, near churches or train stations, or at their homes&quot; since 2008 and forced to do household chores, look after animals and do illegal logging, prosecutors said. 
 
(AFP)

Five people were freed including two minors. The captives were 'attached with chains and straps... beaten (and) humiliated', starved of food

Inhabitants of a village in southern Romania kidnapped dozens of vulnerable young men and boys and pushed them into modern-day slavery, chaining, abusing and humiliating them, authorities said. Police carried out a large-scale raid on Berevoiesti, 170 kilometres (105 miles) north of Bucharest, on Wednesday and freed five people including two minors. They are investigating around 90 suspects. The captives were "attached with chains and straps... beaten (and) humiliated", starved of food and fed on scraps, prosecutors from the Direc?ia de Investigare a Infrac?iunilor de Criminalitate Organizata ?i Terorism (DIICOT) organised crime investigation unit said. Around 40 victims were "captured in public places, near churches or train stations, or at their homes" since 2008 and forced to do household chores, look after animals and do illegal logging, prosecutors said. (AFP)

Romanian police raid village of slaves

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