Romania, Turkey and Bulgaria signed, in Istanbul, the Memorandum of Understanding regarding the establishment of a Task Force to Counter the Sea Mines in the Black Sea, MCM Black Sea. The Romanian Defense Minister, Angel Tîlvăr, emphasized that the aggressiveness and contempt of the Russian Federation towards the norms of international law make the Black Sea not only a regional problem, but also one with global consequences. He also said that it is the responsibility of the three countries, as riparian states and NATO members, to make every effort for the safety of this sea, with the support and involvement of the allies. The establishment of a group was initiated by Turkey last year, in August. The activities are completely peaceful and are not directed against any country.