Hans Klemm talked about Romania’s contribution to NATO and its fight against corruption as he was sworn in as the US Ambassador to Romania on Wednesday, September 16. US Secretary of State John Kerry and Romania's appointed Ambassador to the United States George Maior attended the ceremony.

“Romania is a staunch NATO ally and a significant contributor to international peace and security. By our side in Afghanistan and Iraq, Romania has sacrificed troops and treasure, and it remains a major contributor to the Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan,” Hans Klemm said at the sworn-in ceremony.

He also talked about the missile defense site in Romania, which he said was a demonstration of the country’s commitment to European security.

During his speech, the new US Ambassador said that Romania was playing "a key role in ensuring the prosperity of southeastern Europe,” adding that the country was also a leader in the information technology sector, “drawing a growing number of American firms to invest in the country.”

He also addressed the corruption issue in Romania, talking about the country’s serious efforts to root out high-level corruption.

“Romanian police, prosecutors and judges fighting corruption are reaffirming that no one is above the law and providing inspiration for their counterparts throughout the region,” he said.

“Romania is a friend, a strategic partner and a stalwart ally.  Together with the United States, it has embraced democracy and seeks security and prosperity for its citizens in a Europe whole, free and at peace,” Klemm added.

Before being appointed US Ambassador to Romania, Hans Klemm was the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of Human Resources, and served as Acting General Director of the Foreign Service and Acting Director of Personnel of the Department of State from July 2013 through December 2014.

Previously, he was the US Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, Minister Counselor for Economic Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo, and held director-level positions in the bureaus of Human Resources, and Economic and Business Affairs in the Department of State. He also worked at US embassies in Bonn, Seoul and Port of Spain.

Irina Popescu, irina.popescu@romania-insider.com

(Photo source: US Embassy to Bucharest on Facebook)