Romanian Chamber of Commerce calls for turning the Danube into “Europe’s Highway”

On October 13, the President of the Romanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIR), Mihai Daraban, met with Austrian Federal Minister for European and International Affairs Beate Meinl-Reisinger at the Austrian Embassy in Bucharest. Romanian Foreign Minister Oana-Silvia Țoiu also attended the meeting.

The discussion focused on the modernization of the Danube as a strategic transport corridor and the role of Romania and Austria in Ukraine’s reconstruction.

“Romania, Serbia and Austria are the most interested in developing this corridor, but all Danube countries must be involved. We must make the Danube navigable 365 days a year — a true European highway. This is our strategic advantage, especially amid Ukraine’s reconstruction,” Daraban said.

He added that strengthening Danube infrastructure is both an economic and security priority, enabling stable supply chains for Europe.

Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger emphasized that Ukraine’s reconstruction is a strategic priority for Austria, and Romania plays a critical logistical role through the Danube and the Black Sea.

“We must engage the private sector. This is not only about humanitarian aid — it’s an economic opportunity and a shared European responsibility,” Meinl-Reisinger said.

IDR Commentary

The Institute of Danube Research notes that this Romanian-Austrian dialogue reflects a growing consensus on the strategic importance of the Danube Corridor in Europe’s post-war logistics.

“The idea of transforming the Danube into a year-round transport artery aligns with EU sustainability goals and Ukraine’s future integration into regional transport networks.
The Danube is becoming a space of shared development — not only a river, but a platform for cross-border cooperation,” IDR experts stated.