French court approves extradition of Romanian royal descendant

The Paris Court of Appeal has ordered the “immediate surrender” of Paul of Romania to Romanian authorities, marking a significant development in a case that has been ongoing for several years, Romania’s Ministry of Justice said. However, the ruling is not yet final.

In a statement, the Romanian ministry said the decision concludes a judicial procedure spanning the past three years and reflects “the commitment of both countries to the rule of law and European judicial cooperation mechanisms,” Romania-Insider reports.

However, as the June 18 ruling remains non-final, Paul of Romania continues to be placed under judicial supervision in France pending any further legal proceedings.

Paul of Romania was previously sentenced in 2020 by Romania’s High Court of Cassation and Justice to three years and four months in prison in connection with a case involving the illegal restitution of the former Băneasa Royal Farm. Romanian authorities issued a European arrest warrant shortly after the conviction became final.

He left Romania before the sentencing and settled in France, according to Agerpres. In June 2022, he was detained in Paris, but a French appeals court rejected Romania’s extradition request at the time, citing what it described as a “real risk” that his fundamental rights could be violated if returned.

A descendant of King Carol II, Paul of Romania was convicted in connection with a group accused of attempting to recover properties claimed as part of the former royal family’s estate. Prosecutors alleged that the scheme, which began in 2006, involved influence peddling and other offenses linked to restitution claims.

The Romanian Ministry of Justice said authorities will continue to monitor the judicial process and provide updates on any significant developments in the case.

By Vafa Guliyeva