Reception in New York

Romanian President Nicușor Dan published a photograph on social media platform X on 2 October 2026 showing himself alongside US President Donald Trump. The image also featured Dan's partner, Mirabela Grădinaru, who accompanied the head of state during his official visit to the United States. The photograph was taken on 23 September 2026 at a reception hosted by Trump in New York during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. Dan waited over a week after the event took place before releasing the image and making public remarks regarding the encounter. In his statement, Dan framed the encounter as an important step for bilateral relations between Bucharest and Washington.

“An honour to meet with President Donald Trump in New York at the reception he hosted on the occasion of the UN General Assembly. Romania deeply values the Strategic Partnership with the United States. Our objective is clear: to work together with President Trump to take this special relationship to a new level and to ensure greater security and prosperity for both our nations.”

Strategic partnership and defense commitments

The Romanian president delivered detailed statements on the bilateral relationship between Romania and the United States, focusing on security and economic collaboration. Dan reiterated that the presence of American troops and economic investments in Romania remains vital for maintaining security in Eastern Europe. The Romanian leader pledged that Bucharest will continue to meet its defense and deterrence obligations to support the regional alliance. He emphasized that both countries share the viewpoint that national defense starts with domestic commitment.

“The military and economic presence of the US in Romania is vital for our security and prosperity. We agree: security starts at home. Romania will do its part to consolidate its own defence and deterrence capacity. As one of America's closest allies in South-Eastern Europe, we will continue to honour our commitments. The United States can rely on Romania.”

Diplomatic meetings and delegation itinerary

The reception with Trump was part of a broader schedule of diplomatic engagements during Dan's visit to New York between 19 or 20 September and 23 September 2026. The Romanian head of state held bilateral discussions with international counterparts, including the prime minister of Armenia and the prime minister of Lebanon. Dan also met with American financial leadership, holding talks with Benjamin Black, the chief executive officer of the US International Development Finance Corporation. The trip included discussions centered on attracting American investment to Romania. During the visit on 22 September 2026, an unauthorized video showing Dan kissing Grădinaru was posted to his TikTok account, prompting Dan to state that he had not approved the publication and would address the issue.

Prior interaction in Washington

The New York meeting followed a previous diplomatic interaction between the two leaders in the United States capital in February 2026. Dan visited Washington to attend the inaugural meeting of the Peace Council established by Trump, where Romania participated with observer status. During that earlier gathering, Trump mistakenly addressed Dan as prime minister rather than president. The late September reception in New York provided their first documented direct engagement since the February meeting.