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November 3, 2025 UPDATE A roundup of local and world news 03.11.2025, 20:00 RHEINMETALL In Bucharest, a cooperation agreement was signed that lays the groundwork for the establishment and operation of Rheinmetall-Victoria, which will be the world’s most modern manufacturer of double and triple base powders, according to Armin Papperger, the head of Germany’s Rheinmetall group. In a press conference held jointly PM Ilie Bolojan, Armin Papperger stated that these powders are needed worldwide, especially in Europe, to support defense forces, and are also needed in Romania. “With this partnership, Romania is beginning to emerge as a potential player in the defense industry in Southeast Europe. I am glad that Rheinmetall sees us as an important and reliable partner and is strengthening its presence in Romania. The future powder factory in Victoria represents a half-billion euro investment, approximately 700 new jobs, but above all the advantage of producing powders in Romania,” said the prime minister. Rheinmetall Group is a defense industry leader, producing combat vehicles, weapons, and ammunition. The group already has an extensive presence in Romania, including an ammunition factory and stakes in other companies. Through the SAFE program, Romania will receive the second largest European allocation after Poland, nearly EUR 17 billion, for weapons purchases and the development of defense infrastructure and industry. AICRAFT The Romanian defense ministry Monday signed an agreement for the procurement of 18 F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft and related equipment from the Netherlands for a symbolic price of 1 euro, minister Ionuţ Moşteanu announced. He mentioned that the aircraft will be used exclusively for training. According to the defense minister, the project reflects the trust of the Dutch partners and the recognition of the professionalism of the Romanian Air Force. “It is an important step for the development of the European F-16 Training Center in Feteşti (southeast), which has become a regional hub for the training of NATO and partner country pilots,” Ionuţ Moşteanu posted on Facebook. FORUM The NATO Industry Forum, a strategic event held every 2 years, takes place in Bucharest this week, bringing together military and civilian leaders from member states and industry representatives to facilitate dialogue and collaboration in the field of defense and security. The forum takes place on November 5 and 6, and this year’s edition will focus on the decision by NATO heads of state and government to significantly increase defense spending. NATO’s Secretary General Mark Rutte is expected to arrive in Romania on Wednesday, president Nicuşor Dan said on Sunday. FOREX Romania’s foreign exchange reserves stood at around EUR 65 billion at the end of October, up EUR 300 million since the previous month, according to the National Bank. Gold reserves remained at 103.6 tons, equivalent to EUR 11.5 billion. In total, the country’s international reserves amounted to a rough EUR 77 billion at the end of October, up EUR 1.2 billion since September. SUBSIDIES Low-income households will benefit from heating and electricity subsidies during this cold season, the Romanian labor minister Florin Manole announced. Applications must be submitted to local authorities, and payments begin in December. The assistance is intended to offset the costs of electricity, gas, heating, or fuel for cooking and lighting. Over the last four cold seasons (2021-2024), aid was granted totaling approximately EUR 720 million. ACCIDENT The Romanian foreign ministry, through the Romanian consulate in Rome, has taken note of the partial collapse on Monday of a building undergoing revamping works in the center of Rome. The Italian authorities at the scene reported that a worker, a Romanian national, was slightly injured and was taken to a hospital for health checks. He is currently out of danger. A second Romanian citizen was affected by the collapse of the building where he worked. He is conscious. The consulate general of Romania in Rome stays in touch with the local authorities, and is ready to provide relevant consular assistance, if the situation requires it. (AMP)
