U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ) released the following statement today clarifying his remarks referencing Romania earlier this month:
"In my June 3rd reference to Romania, I did not intend to insult or undermine the remarkable progress Romania has made in strengthening its institutions of government and advancing rule of law and democratic governance. I have long applauded Chief Prosecutor Laura Kovesi's courageous anti-corruption efforts as a model for other countries, and I have been pleased by the significant strides Romania has made in ensuring the integrity of its institutions since its return to a bicameral parliamentary system in 1991. Romania has consistently proven itself an important ally in promoting stability in the region and advancing democratic principles in Central and Eastern Europe."