Islamabad, November 1, 2024 – The Europe Today: On October 25, 2024 Islamabad in a grand gesture of diplomatic and military camaraderie, the Embassy of Romania in Pakistan hosted a distinguished reception to celebrate the Day of the Romanian Armed Forces. This occasion marks a proud tradition in Romania, honoring the liberation of the nation’s territory in the Second World War, while reinforcing Romania’s commitment to peace, stability, and the values shared with global allies. Held at Islamabad’s Marriott Hotel, the event brought together esteemed dignitaries, diplomats, military officials, and civil society representatives in a celebration of Romanian heritage and international cooperation.
Mr. Eduard Robert Preda, Chargé d’Affaires of Romania, and Colonel Cristian Roducu, Romania’s Defense Attaché, along Head of consul with their spouses and Embassy staff, welcomed guests with warm hospitality. The evening began with the national anthems of Romania and Pakistan, followed by a warm address from Mr. Preda, who shared the history of Romania’s Armed Forces Day. “Each year, October 25th serves as a reminder of our heroes’ sacrifices and the value we place on freedom and independence,” Mr. Preda remarked. He praised the modernization efforts that have brought Romania’s military to NATO standards, reinforcing the country’s role as a key player in regional and global security.
The Acting Ambassador then addresses the esteemed guests, delivering the following speech. He stated each year on October 25th, Romania observes Armed Forces Day, a day that holds profound meaning for all Romanians as a tribute to our fallen heroes. This date historically symbolizes Romania’s liberation during World War II, marking the day our nation was restored to peace.
The Romanian Armed Forces, now reformed and aligned with NATO standards, stand ready to contribute to global peace and stability. As a reliable NATO member, Romania prioritizes fostering trust and constructive relations worldwide. Today’s interconnected world highlights each nation’s sovereignty and the right to self-determination, a value Romania is committed to upholding alongside our allies.
In the current regional security environment, Romania remains a committed ally and a significant provider of security, particularly within the Black Sea area. Romania, sharing a border with Ukraine, has been steadfast in its support of Ukraine’s sovereignty in response to the Russian Federation’s unprovoked invasion, viewing Ukrainian security as integral to broader European stability. We deeply appreciate the international support extended to Ukraine, especially in NATO’s commitment to enhancing Ukraine’s Euro-Atlantic integration.
Romania’s dedication to security has been demonstrated through establishing the F-16 Training Center, where Ukrainian pilots are undergoing comprehensive training to bolster their defense. Moreover, our solidarity extends to Moldova, where we firmly support their European aspirations, evidenced by the recent EU Security and Defense Partnership to support Moldova’s Armed Forces modernization.
Furthermore, he highlights the flourishing military partnership between Romania and Pakistan. Soon, the Pakistan Navy will welcome its fourth patrol vessel from Romania’s Damen Shipyard Galati, enhancing Pakistan’s maritime security capabilities. Romania looks forward to participating in IDEAS 2024 and AMAN 2025 in Pakistan, facilitating invaluable exchanges of defense expertise and fostering collaboration in maritime security.
In a documentary screened at the event, guests glimpsed the strength, professionalism, and modernization of Romania’s Armed Forces and showcased the strength, professionalism, and achievements of the Romanian Armed Forces, which garnered admiration from the audience.
A ceremonial cake-cutting followed, symbolizing unity and shared values, before an elaborate dinner was served. The culinary offerings included a unique blend of Romanian specialties, creating an exceptional dining experience that resonated with all attendees. The evening concluded with a specially curated dinner featuring a range of Romanian delicacies, offering guests a rich cultural experience.
The event was attended by high-ranking of Pakistan’s high-ranking defense officials, including Major General Amir Ishfaq Kayani, Rear Admiral Amir from the Ministry of Defense, AVM Air Vice Marshal Kashif, Deputy Chief of Air Staff (Support), Major General Munir Ud Din, DG Foreign Military Cooperation from JS Headquarters, Major General Kashif Zameer, Chief of Logistics Branch, GHQ, and Rear Admiral Shafqat Hussain from the Pakistan Navy. Representing the Pakistan-Romania Association, Chairman Zaildar Ahsan Shah, along with Vice Presidents Khalid Rehman, Tayyab Chattha, Sheikh Fayaz, and Fararani, joined to extend heartfelt congratulations, expressing their strong commitment to fostering enduring ties between the two nations.
Mr. Zaildar Ahsan Shah while talking to media, “Romania stands as a remarkable nation with a spirit as vibrant as its people. The deepening bond between Pakistan and Romania is truly inspiring, a reflection of the diligent and visionary efforts of the Romanian diplomatic and defense community here in Pakistan particularly the Acting Ambassador, the Defense Attaché, and the Head Consul Sector. Their steadfast dedication is not only strengthening our bilateral ties but is laying a solid foundation for a flourishing and enduring partnership that promises prosperity and mutual growth for both our nations. The Romanian Armed Forces stand resilient and proud, blending tradition with modern strength. Their adaptability and alliances underscore a steadfast commitment to safeguarding Romania and contributing to global peace.
This celebration of Romania’s Armed Forces Day in Islamabad underscored the deepening military and diplomatic cooperation between Romania and Pakistan, highlighting a shared commitment to international peace, stability and mutual respect. The event left an indelible mark on attendees, signifying Romania’s lasting contributions to NATO’s goals and its enduring bond with Pakistan in building a peaceful future and highlighted the significant and evolving military collaboration between Pakistan and Romania, reinforcing a shared commitment to peace, stability, and mutual respect.
