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Russia hits back: Romania’s diplomatic downsizing kills consulate deal — MFA

The Russian government previously accepted the Russian Foreign Ministry's proposal to cancel the deal to open a Romanian consulate general in Rostov-on-Don

MOSCOW, December 12. /TASS/. Russia's decision to denounce the agreement on opening a Romanian consulate general in Rostov-on-Don was a response to the actions of the Romanian side, which has radically reduced the number of Russian diplomats in this country, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said at a briefing.

"This step is not something unexpected for the Romanian side. Back in August 2023, Romania was notified that as part of retaliatory measures to Bucharest's decision to radically reduce Russia’s diplomatic presence in Romania, Russia went ahead and withdrew its consent for the operation of the Romanian consular office in Rostov-on-Don," Zakharova said.

"As a result, the number of consular outlets of the parties has been equalized. One consulate general each will still operate: in Constanta and St. Petersburg respectively," the diplomat said. "In due course, this will also be relayed through diplomatic channels to the Romanian side."

"This is exclusively a response to Romania's proactive actions," the Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman emphasized.

The Russian government previously accepted the Russian Foreign Ministry's proposal to cancel the deal to open a Romanian consulate general in Rostov-on-Don. The corresponding decree was signed by Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

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Foreign policy Romania Maria Zakharova

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