Islamabad (TDI): The Embassy of Romania in Pakistan celebrated Romania’s National Day with a reception marking the historic Great Union of 1918, a moment that unified all Romanian provinces into a modern nation-state.
The event brought together senior Pakistani officials, diplomats, and members of the community, highlighting more than six decades of diplomatic ties between Romania and Pakistan.
Romanian Ambassador Dr. Dan Stoenescu, in his address, underscored the symbolic importance of December 1st for Romanians, describing it as a day that reaffirms national unity, shared values and the country’s pursuit of freedom, security and prosperity.
He noted that 2024 marks 61 years of Romania–Pakistan diplomatic relations, a partnership characterized by mutual respect and expanding cooperation across political, economic, cultural and academic fields.
Ambassador Stoenescu highlighted several milestones achieved over the past year, including the opening of the Romanian Honorary Consulate in Peshawar and preparations for new honorary consulates in Karachi and Lahore.
He said his extensive travel across Pakistan had strengthened business connections and opened new avenues for trade and investment.
A landmark achievement, he noted, was the first-ever Romania–Pakistan IT Forum, which brought together over 100 companies and laid the groundwork for collaboration in technology and innovation.
The ambassador also pointed to deepening defense cooperation, marked by high-level military exchanges, as well as growing people-to-people contacts.
Romania hosted its first Romanian Cultural Days in Pakistan, and academic ties expanded with new partnerships involving NUST, GIFT and NUTECH. This year also saw the launch of Pakistan’s first Romanian language lectorate at NUML, welcoming lecturer Dr. Oana Ursache.
Touching on regional security, Ambassador Stoenescu referenced NATO and EU initiatives such as Eastern Sentry and Eastern Flank Watch, emphasizing Romania’s frontline role as the Allied state with the longest border with Ukraine.
He reaffirmed Romania’s unwavering support for Ukraine and commitment to defending democratic values amid ongoing geopolitical challenges.
Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi, attending as chief guest, conveyed Pakistan’s warm congratulations to Romania.
Read More: Romania–Pakistan IT Forum 2025 Set Stage for Digital Cooperation
He described Romania as a trusted friend and valued partner, noting the excellent bilateral relations and significant potential for future cooperation in trade, education and development.
Abbasi said the celebration symbolized the strong and enduring friendship between the two nations, reaffirming Pakistan’s goodwill and support for Romania’s continued progress and prosperity.
The event concluded with a shared commitment to further strengthening ties and exploring new avenues of collaboration as both countries look toward a future of deeper partnership.
Established in December 2008, The Diplomatic Insight is Pakistan’s premier diplomacy and foreign affairs magazine, available in both digital and print formats.
