Romania's prime minister-designate on Thursday unveiled a minority government line-up with only a slim chance of winning parliamentary approval, &nbsp;prolonging political uncertainty in the poor, corruption-plagued EU country.

President Klaus Iohannis last week tasked Ludovic Orban, chief of the National Liberal Party (PNL), to form a new government after the previous Social Democratic Party (PSD) &nbsp;administration lost a no-confidence vote.

"We are in a moment in which we need a government to put Romania on the right track", Orban told a press conference flanked by his 17 cabinet members, all but two from his party.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/romania-government-faces-collapse-in-no-confidence-vote-254858">The new cabinet</a> needs the approval of parliament, which is a challenge, given that PNL holds only 96 of the 465 seats, leaving it well short of the 233 majority threshold after talks with several other parties failed.

Orban, 56, a former transport minister,&nbsp;wants a confidence vote to take place next week, while the PSD, which has 201 seats and says it will not back the new government -- is trying to delay it until early November.

If he does survive, his government will likely be a transitional one until late 2020 when the next parliamentary elections are scheduled.

The new ministers are all from PNL except for four-star general Nicolae Ciuca who takes on defence and career diplomat Bogdan Aurescu, nominated as foreign minister.

Among its priorities, the government aims to keep the annual budget deficit under three per cent of GDP, the EU limit, and to reverse "harmful" judicial reforms introduced by the PSD.

Since taking power in late 2016, the PSD government faced massive protests and criticism from Brussels over the reforms seen as helping politicians to escape corruption sentences.

The liberals also intend to nominate a new European Commissioner after social democrat Rovana Plumb was rejected by the European Parliament.

The political crisis in Romania comes one month before the first round of presidential elections, scheduled for November 10.

Incumbent Iohannis, himself a liberal, seeks a second term with the support of the PNL and is a clear favourite.

Romania's prime minister-designate on Thursday unveiled a minority government line-up with only a slim chance of winning parliamentary approval, prolonging political uncertainty in the poor, corruption-plagued EU country.

Romania's prime minister-designate on Thursday unveiled a minority government line-up with only a slim chance of winning parliamentary approval, prolonging political uncertainty in the poor, corruption-plagued EU country. President Klaus Iohannis last week tasked Ludovic Orban, chief of the National Liberal Party (PNL), to form a new government after the previous Social Democratic Party (PSD) administration lost a no-confidence vote. "We are in a moment in which we need a government to put Romania on the right track", Orban told a press conference flanked by his 17 cabinet members, all but two from his party. The new cabinet needs the approval of parliament, which is a challenge, given that PNL holds only 96 of the 465 seats, leaving it well short of the 233 majority threshold after talks with several other parties failed. Orban, 56, a former transport minister, wants a confidence vote to take place next week, while the PSD, which has 201 seats and says it will not back the new government -- is trying to delay it until early November. If he does survive, his government will likely be a transitional one until late 2020 when the next parliamentary elections are scheduled. The new ministers are all from PNL except for four-star general Nicolae Ciuca who takes on defence and career diplomat Bogdan Aurescu, nominated as foreign minister. Among its priorities, the government aims to keep the annual budget deficit under three per cent of GDP, the EU limit, and to reverse "harmful" judicial reforms introduced by the PSD. Since taking power in late 2016, the PSD government faced massive protests and criticism from Brussels over the reforms seen as helping politicians to escape corruption sentences. The liberals also intend to nominate a new European Commissioner after social democrat Rovana Plumb was rejected by the European Parliament. The political crisis in Romania comes one month before the first round of presidential elections, scheduled for November 10. Incumbent Iohannis, himself a liberal, seeks a second term with the support of the PNL and is a clear favourite.

Romania's liberals present minority government

Romania's beleaguered left-wing government risks collapse in a no-confidence vote Thursday, just weeks before a presidential election and amid controversy over the country's nominee for EU commissioner.

Prime Minister Viorica Dancila lost her parliamentary majority in August when the junior coalition partner of her Social Democrats (PSD), Romania's biggest party, withdrew support, citing major disagreements.&nbsp;

That followed hard on the heels of the PSD's shock losses in May's European Parliament elections and the jailing of its once all-powerful leader, Liviu Dragnea, on corruption charges.

The opposition says the no-confidence motion has the support of at least 233 MPs in the 465-seat parliament, just enough to pass it, though some might yet side with the PSD, leaving the outcome in the balance.

"This motion won't pass. I trust the good sense of MPs who value the country's stability," Dancila told PSD lawmakers Tuesday.

The motion demanding the government's sacking had received 237 signatures.

Lobbying lawmakers

Dancila has since instructed her own party lawmakers to abstain from voting to prevent possible "betrayals" and has tried to woo support, promising to pay local communities 300 million euros this Friday to make sure their MPs back her.

Lawmakers likely to change sides have also been offered public service posts and spots on party lists for next year's legislative elections.

The result of the vote is eagerly awaited in Brussels after Dancila's candidate for EU commissioner was rejected. Newly-elected European Commission head, Ursula von der Leyen, has requested a replacement.

Dancila -- whose PSD has been in power since late 2016 but has seen massive protests over controversial judicial reforms -- is also due to run in presidential elections with the first round scheduled for November 10.

Incumbent centre-right President Klaus Iohannis already looks set to be re-elected for a second term, and an overthrow of Dancila's government would weaken her chances even further.

If the motion succeeds, Iohannis will consult parties before appointing a new prime minister to run the poor, corruption-plagued EU member until legislative elections scheduled for the end of next year.

Undermined by internal dissent, the opposition has so far failed to agree on an alternative candidate to Dancila.

One option is former transport minister Ludovic Orban, leader of the Liberals, which Iohannis used to head, but he enjoys far from unanimous backing.

Whatever the outcome of the vote, the government -- current or new -- will have the delicate task of writing the budget for 2020, complicated by an explosion of public spending in recent months as the PSD struggles to stay in power.

The International Monetary Fund has already warned that Romania risks surpassing the three percent public deficit ceiling imposed by the EU, urging Bucharest to give up on a PSD promise of doubling pensions by 2022.

Romania's beleaguered left-wing government risks collapse in a no-confidence vote Thursday, just weeks before a presidential election and amid controversy over the country's nominee for EU commissioner.

Romania's beleaguered left-wing government risks collapse in a no-confidence vote Thursday, just weeks before a presidential election and amid controversy over the country's nominee for EU commissioner. Prime Minister Viorica Dancila lost her parliamentary majority in August when the junior coalition partner of her Social Democrats (PSD), Romania's biggest party, withdrew support, citing major disagreements. That followed hard on the heels of the PSD's shock losses in May's European Parliament elections and the jailing of its once all-powerful leader, Liviu Dragnea, on corruption charges. The opposition says the no-confidence motion has the support of at least 233 MPs in the 465-seat parliament, just enough to pass it, though some might yet side with the PSD, leaving the outcome in the balance. "This motion won't pass. I trust the good sense of MPs who value the country's stability," Dancila told PSD lawmakers Tuesday. The motion demanding the government's sacking had received 237 signatures. Lobbying lawmakers Dancila has since instructed her own party lawmakers to abstain from voting to prevent possible "betrayals" and has tried to woo support, promising to pay local communities 300 million euros this Friday to make sure their MPs back her. Lawmakers likely to change sides have also been offered public service posts and spots on party lists for next year's legislative elections. The result of the vote is eagerly awaited in Brussels after Dancila's candidate for EU commissioner was rejected. Newly-elected European Commission head, Ursula von der Leyen, has requested a replacement. Dancila -- whose PSD has been in power since late 2016 but has seen massive protests over controversial judicial reforms -- is also due to run in presidential elections with the first round scheduled for November 10. Incumbent centre-right President Klaus Iohannis already looks set to be re-elected for a second term, and an overthrow of Dancila's government would weaken her chances even further. If the motion succeeds, Iohannis will consult parties before appointing a new prime minister to run the poor, corruption-plagued EU member until legislative elections scheduled for the end of next year. Undermined by internal dissent, the opposition has so far failed to agree on an alternative candidate to Dancila. One option is former transport minister Ludovic Orban, leader of the Liberals, which Iohannis used to head, but he enjoys far from unanimous backing. Whatever the outcome of the vote, the government -- current or new -- will have the delicate task of writing the budget for 2020, complicated by an explosion of public spending in recent months as the PSD struggles to stay in power. The International Monetary Fund has already warned that Romania risks surpassing the three percent public deficit ceiling imposed by the EU, urging Bucharest to give up on a PSD promise of doubling pensions by 2022.

Romania government faces collapse in no-confidence vote

Ten people were killed and seven injured on Saturday when a lorry collided with a minibus in eastern Romania, the country with the highest level of road deaths in the European Union, police said.

Nine of the 16 people on the minibus and the driver of the truck died in the accident, one of the most serious in the country where the poor state of the roads is a concern for motorists.

Of the seven injured, four are in serious condition, secretary of state for the interior Raed Arafat said.

Some 40 firefighters were at the scene of the accident, which forced the closure of the road linking the towns of Slobozia and Urziceni, according to the department for emergency services.

Romania holds the record in the European Union for the highest level of deaths from road accidents, with 96 fatalities per one million inhabitants in 2018 compared to an average of 49 among all 28 EU nations.

Ten people were killed and seven injured on Saturday when a lorry collided with a minibus in eastern Romania, the country with the highest level of road deaths in the European Union, police said.

Ten people were killed and seven injured on Saturday when a lorry collided with a minibus in eastern Romania, the country with the highest level of road deaths in the European Union, police said. Nine of the 16 people on the minibus and the driver of the truck died in the accident, one of the most serious in the country where the poor state of the roads is a concern for motorists. Of the seven injured, four are in serious condition, secretary of state for the interior Raed Arafat said. Some 40 firefighters were at the scene of the accident, which forced the closure of the road linking the towns of Slobozia and Urziceni, according to the department for emergency services. Romania holds the record in the European Union for the highest level of deaths from road accidents, with 96 fatalities per one million inhabitants in 2018 compared to an average of 49 among all 28 EU nations.

Ten killed in minibus-lorry collision in Romania

Arsenal could bolster their defence significantly in the final 24 hours before the Premier League transfer window closes on Thursday with the signings of Kieran Tierney and David Luiz, according to reports.

Arsenal could bolster their defence significantly in the final 24 hours before the Premier League transfer window closes on Thursday with the signings of Kieran Tierney and David Luiz, according to reports. Scottish left-back Tierney has been a target all summer for the Gunners, who have had two bids previously rejected by Celtic. However, Tierney, who sat out Celtic's 1-1 draw with CFR Cluj in Romania on Wednesday as he recovers from a hernia operation, is set to travel to London after the clubs finally agreed on the payment structure of a £25 million move according to widespread reports. "I've said the last few days it wouldn't surprise me," Celtic boss Neil Lennon told the BBC on the possibility of losing Tierney. "If he goes, he goes with everyone's best wishes. He's an outstanding talent and a great kid." Arsenal's long search for centre-back cover could also be resolved on Thursday should Luiz move across London from Chelsea. The 32-year-old did not train with the rest of his Chelsea teammates on Wednesday. "If we can on the last day, we will try to sign another centre-back, but one who has the capacity to help us," said Arsenal coach Unai Emery. Arsenal conceded 51 goals in the Premier League last season to miss out on Champions League football for a third consecutive season.

Arsenal agree deal for Tierney, closing in on Luiz

The 15-year-old victim called the police three times to report she was being held against her will by a man who had raped her in Romania. Police took 19 hours to reach the scene, by which time she was already dead.

Protests flare against Romanian Police after murder of a teenage girl

Anti-domestic violence protesters gathered outside of Romania's ministry of internal affairs building on Sunday, standing in memory of two girls murdered and against the inaction of authorities.

Romania protest after two female teenagers killed

The suspect, named as 65-year-old Gheorghe Dinca, has admitted to killing two teenage girls including a 15-year-old whose disappearance this week shook the country.

Romania suspect admits killing 2 girls, charged with murder

Romania's presidency and the Orthodox Church awarded Wimbledon tennis champion <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/simona-halep-defeats-serena-william-to-win-womens-singles-title-235577">Simona Halep</a> their highest distinctions on Monday while hundreds of fans cheered her home after she blitzed US&nbsp;opponent <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-has-lost-intimidation-factor-says-simona-halep-235722">Serena Williams</a> at the weekend.

Halep, 27, became the first Romanian to win a Wimbledon singles title after stunning seven-times champion Serena Williams 6-2, 6-2 in the 56-minute match final on Saturday.

"I played my chance. I did the best I could and that's why I managed to win," a beaming <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/simona-halep-beats-serena-williams-to-win-wimbledon-singles-title-235579">Halep </a>told reporters at Bucharest international airport, clutching her trophy and flowers as fans shouted "Bravo, Simona!".

"I've been staying focused on my tactics ... <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/equality-is-my-cause-serena-williams-puts-legend-billie-jean-king-in-her-place-235601">Serena </a>is the best player of all times," Halep said.

It was Halep's second Grand Slam title following her triumph at Roland Garros in Paris last year.

The presidency awarded her the Star of Romania while the church gave her the Patriarchal Cross.

"I always make the sign of the cross and believe in God because nothing can be done without the help of God," Halep said last year after winning in Paris.

Romania's presidency and the Orthodox Church awarded Wimbledon tennis champion Simona Halep their highest distinctions on Monday while hundreds of fans cheered her home after she blitzed US opponent Serena Williams at the weekend.

Romania's presidency and the Orthodox Church awarded Wimbledon tennis champion Simona Halep their highest distinctions on Monday while hundreds of fans cheered her home after she blitzed US opponent Serena Williams at the weekend. Halep, 27, became the first Romanian to win a Wimbledon singles title after stunning seven-times champion Serena Williams 6-2, 6-2 in the 56-minute match final on Saturday. "I played my chance. I did the best I could and that's why I managed to win," a beaming Halep told reporters at Bucharest international airport, clutching her trophy and flowers as fans shouted "Bravo, Simona!". "I've been staying focused on my tactics ... Serena is the best player of all times," Halep said. It was Halep's second Grand Slam title following her triumph at Roland Garros in Paris last year. The presidency awarded her the Star of Romania while the church gave her the Patriarchal Cross. "I always make the sign of the cross and believe in God because nothing can be done without the help of God," Halep said last year after winning in Paris.

Wimbledon champion Simona Halep awarded with Romania's highest distinctions

Besides electing their new<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-elections-kick-off-as-dutch-polls-open-220854"> European Parliament </a>members on Sunday, Romanians will be taking part in another vote, a referendum which their president says lets voters express their frustration over corruption.

President Klaus Iohannis called the referendum over the government's controversial justice reforms, which he and other critics say will hand impunity to politicians convicted of graft offences in what is one of the EU's most corruption-prone states.

Why a referendum?&nbsp;

Centre-right President Iohannis has been a consistent and trenchant critic of the justice reforms that the left-wing government has tried to push since coming to power in late 2016.

Brussels has also frequently criticised the measures, with the European Commission recently threatening sanctions could follow if the government doesn't change course.

The reforms are widely seen as designed to help the head of the ruling Social Democratic Party (PSD), Liviu Dragnea, who has himself been convicted of corruption offences.

Iohannis has stymied some of the reforms and delayed others from coming into force but says that he lacks the means definitively to prevent what he terms "an attack on the rule of law".

The PSD made a previous attempt to ease anti-corruption legislation in 2017 but had to back down after the plans sparked the biggest demonstrations since the fall of communism.

What will be the questions?&nbsp;

Voters will have two questions on the ballot paper. First,&nbsp;"Do you approve of a ban on any amnesty or pardon for corruption-related offences?"

Secondly,&nbsp;"Do you approve of a ban on emergency decrees to change criminal penalties?"

One of Iohannis' main criticisms of the government has been its attempted use of such emergency decrees to pass controversial measures.

Will it be binding?&nbsp;

Not in and of itself. If there is a "yes" vote on either measure, parliament is supposed to make the proposed law.

But the PSD enjoys a majority in parliament and there is no way of actually forcing MPs to do this.

Moreover, at least 30 per cent of voters -- out of an electorate of 18.3 million -- have to take part in the vote in order for it to be considered valid.

This threshold might not be reached, with several PSD figures calling for a boycott.

The PSD last year called on voters to back a referendum to prevent any future legalisation of gay marriage, but that vote also failed due to insufficient turnout.

Turnout figures should be available on Sunday evening, but the result will only be published on Monday.

What other effects could it have?&nbsp;

According to legal expert Laura Stefan from the think tank Expert Forum, a "yes" vote with a strong turnout would prove that the fight against corruption is still a top priority for Romanians and would strengthen Iohannis's position.

It would also be a slap in the face for the PSD -- which has portrayed the fight against corruption as a "witch-hunt" -- as well as for Dragnea, the party's eminence grise.

But the vote isn't without risks for Iohannis, who is standing for re-election as president in the autumn.

A low turnout could weaken him going into that poll.

Dragnea himself is set to announce after the close of polls on Sunday whether he himself will run against Iohannis in the presidential elections.

A verdict is expected on Monday in Dragnea's appeal against a conviction he received last year over a fake jobs scandal.

A previous conviction for electoral fraud prevented Dragnea from becoming prime minister after the PSD's 2016 election victory but would not stop him becoming president.

Besides electing their new European Parliament members on Sunday, Romanians will be taking part in another vote, a referendum which their president says lets voters express their frustration over corruption.

Besides electing their new European Parliament members on Sunday, Romanians will be taking part in another vote, a referendum which their president says lets voters express their frustration over corruption. President Klaus Iohannis called the referendum over the government's controversial justice reforms, which he and other critics say will hand impunity to politicians convicted of graft offences in what is one of the EU's most corruption-prone states. Why a referendum? Centre-right President Iohannis has been a consistent and trenchant critic of the justice reforms that the left-wing government has tried to push since coming to power in late 2016. Brussels has also frequently criticised the measures, with the European Commission recently threatening sanctions could follow if the government doesn't change course. The reforms are widely seen as designed to help the head of the ruling Social Democratic Party (PSD), Liviu Dragnea, who has himself been convicted of corruption offences. Iohannis has stymied some of the reforms and delayed others from coming into force but says that he lacks the means definitively to prevent what he terms "an attack on the rule of law". The PSD made a previous attempt to ease anti-corruption legislation in 2017 but had to back down after the plans sparked the biggest demonstrations since the fall of communism. What will be the questions? Voters will have two questions on the ballot paper. First, "Do you approve of a ban on any amnesty or pardon for corruption-related offences?" Secondly, "Do you approve of a ban on emergency decrees to change criminal penalties?" One of Iohannis' main criticisms of the government has been its attempted use of such emergency decrees to pass controversial measures. Will it be binding? Not in and of itself. If there is a "yes" vote on either measure, parliament is supposed to make the proposed law. But the PSD enjoys a majority in parliament and there is no way of actually forcing MPs to do this. Moreover, at least 30 per cent of voters -- out of an electorate of 18.3 million -- have to take part in the vote in order for it to be considered valid. This threshold might not be reached, with several PSD figures calling for a boycott. The PSD last year called on voters to back a referendum to prevent any future legalisation of gay marriage, but that vote also failed due to insufficient turnout. Turnout figures should be available on Sunday evening, but the result will only be published on Monday. What other effects could it have? According to legal expert Laura Stefan from the think tank Expert Forum, a "yes" vote with a strong turnout would prove that the fight against corruption is still a top priority for Romanians and would strengthen Iohannis's position. It would also be a slap in the face for the PSD -- which has portrayed the fight against corruption as a "witch-hunt" -- as well as for Dragnea, the party's eminence grise. But the vote isn't without risks for Iohannis, who is standing for re-election as president in the autumn. A low turnout could weaken him going into that poll. Dragnea himself is set to announce after the close of polls on Sunday whether he himself will run against Iohannis in the presidential elections. A verdict is expected on Monday in Dragnea's appeal against a conviction he received last year over a fake jobs scandal. A previous conviction for electoral fraud prevented Dragnea from becoming prime minister after the PSD's 2016 election victory but would not stop him becoming president.

Romania's anti-corruption referendum explained

A family of Romanian witches are enhancing their powers thanks to the help of the internet. Matriarch Mihaela Minca and her daughters sit and chant as they perform a love spell via a video call to a paying client in India, over 5,000 kilometers (3,000 miles) away.

Romania’s witches sell love spells over the internet

Dozens of houses have been destroyed in a landslide in the Bolivian capital of La Paz. Watch this video to know more.

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;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
.<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.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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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

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