Islamabad, November 28, 2025 – The Europe Today: Romanian Ambassador to Pakistan Dan Stoenescu on Thursday said that Romania marked its National Day by reflecting on 61 years of diplomatic relations with Pakistan, emphasizing new diplomatic, cultural, educational and economic initiatives that have advanced bilateral cooperation over the past year.
Speaking at the National Day celebration, the ambassador said Romania observes its National Day on 1st December, commemorating the Great Union of 1918, when Romanian regions unified to form a single state. He said the day holds deep symbolic significance, reaffirming the principles of national unity, security, stability and sustainable growth.
This year’s celebration, he noted, also marked 61 years of Romania–Pakistan diplomatic relations—more than six decades characterized by partnership, respect and consistent engagement. Relations have expanded across political, economic, academic and cultural spheres, reflecting the shared commitment of both nations.
Ambassador Stoenescu highlighted several developments from the past year, including the inauguration of the Romanian Honorary Consulate in Peshawar, with additional honorary consulates planned for Karachi and Lahore to strengthen outreach and diplomatic presence.
He said the Romanian Embassy has actively engaged with Pakistan by visiting major cities—Karachi, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Rawalpindi and Peshawar—holding meetings with government officials, business leaders and industry groups to explore avenues for trade, investment and commercial cooperation.
A major milestone of the year was the launch of the first Romania–Pakistan IT Forum, which brought together more than 100 companies from both countries, opening new avenues for collaboration in digital innovation and information technology.
Defence cooperation also strengthened, with high-level military exchanges contributing to deeper mutual understanding and reaffirming ongoing collaboration between the armed forces.
The ambassador said people-to-people ties expanded with increased cultural, academic and media exchanges. The first Romanian Cultural Days held in November featured film screenings, musical performances and art exhibitions in Karachi and Islamabad, showcasing Romanian creativity and cultural diversity.
Academic cooperation also grew as Romanian universities enhanced partnerships with Pakistani institutions including NUST, GIFT University and NUTECH. He noted the establishment of the first Romanian language lectorate at NUML, led by Romanian lecturer Dr. Oana Ursache, as an important step in strengthening academic and cultural ties.
Addressing regional security, Stoenescu said that despite evolving geopolitical dynamics, Romania remains committed to safeguarding national sovereignty, economic growth and long-term development. He highlighted the impact of the Russia–Ukraine conflict, noting that drone strikes on Ukrainian ports along the Danube had brought the effects of the war close to Romanian borders. He mentioned NATO and EU measures—such as the Eastern Sentry initiative and Eastern Flank Watch—aimed at reinforcing collective defence.
He warned against normalising frequent violations of Allied airspace by Russian drones and aircraft, stressing that Romania, NATO’s member with the longest border with Ukraine, continues to strengthen defence cooperation while supporting Ukraine’s quest for lasting peace.
The ambassador said the Republic of Moldova also faces persistent security pressures, adding that Romania strongly supports Moldova’s European integration and cooperates closely to address regional challenges.
He reaffirmed that Romania’s foreign policy remains anchored in its EU membership, its role in NATO, its strategic partnership with the United States and its engagement with global partners.
As the event concluded, Ambassador Stoenescu reflected on the progress made in bilateral relations over 61 years, noting continued cooperation in culture, education, trade, security and technology. He expressed confidence that Romania and Pakistan will further expand their partnership and create new opportunities for future collaboration.
