about ever-expanding
relations with Pakistan
Ambassador Stoenescu shared that Romania has significantly expanded its presence in Pakistan over the past year
Ansar Mahmood Bhatti
ISLAMABAD: Romania’s Ambassador to Pakistan, H.E. Dan Stoenescu, delivered an inspiring address on the occasion of Romania’s National Day, celebrated on 1 December, emphasizing unity, resilience, and the deepening partnership between Romania and Pakistan.
Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi, Governor KP Faisal Karim Kundi, other ministers and govt officials attended the event. Federal Minister Hanif Abbasi spoke on the occasion and termed relations between Pakistan and Romania excellent.
Speaking to a distinguished gathering of diplomats, officials, academia, and members of civil society, the ambassador said that Romania’s National Day marks “the Great Union of 1918”—a defining moment when all Romanian provinces united to form a modern and sovereign state. He said the day serves as a reminder of national unity, shared values, and the country’s unwavering commitment to freedom, security and prosperity.
Highlighting this year’s milestone, the ambassador noted that Romania and Pakistan are celebrating 61 years of diplomatic relations, built on friendship, mutual respect, and consistent cooperation.
Ambassador Stoenescu shared that Romania has significantly expanded its presence in Pakistan over the past year. The opening of the Romanian Honorary Consulate in Peshawar, and upcoming honorary consulates in Karachi and Lahore, reflect Romania’s strategic focus on strengthening bilateral engagement.
He said his extensive travels across Pakistan—including Karachi, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Rawalpindi and Peshawar—have helped open new avenues for trade, investment and business dialogue.
A major highlight of the year was the successful launch of the first Romania–Pakistan IT Forum, bringing over 100 tech companies from both countries into direct contact. The envoy termed it a “historic step” toward building partnerships in technology, innovation and digital transformation.
The Romanian ambassador underscored a notable momentum in bilateral defence ties, citing high-level military exchanges that have reinforced the “trusted partnership” between the two armed forces.
Cultural and educational collaboration has also grown substantially. The first edition of the Romanian Cultural Days in Pakistan—featuring film screenings, art exhibitions and music performances—drew strong public interest in Islamabad and Karachi.
Academic partnerships with institutions such as NUST, GIFT University and NUTECH continue to expand. The ambassador proudly announced the opening of Pakistan’s first Romanian language lectorate at NUML University, welcoming its inaugural Romanian language lecturer, Dr. Oana Ursache.
Addressing the broader geopolitical situation, Ambassador Stoenescu painted a sober picture of security challenges facing Europe—particularly the ramifications of Russia’s war on Ukraine. He noted that repeated drone attacks on Ukrainian ports along the Danube have brought the conflict close to Romania’s borders.
He pointed to recent NATO and EU initiatives—such as Eastern Sentry, Eastern Flank Watch, and enhanced airspace monitoring—as critical steps in strengthening regional security. The ambassador stressed that violations of Allied airspace by Russian drones and aircraft “must not become the new normal.”
Romania, he said, remains steadfast in supporting Ukraine, defending democratic values, and safeguarding regional and international security. “We are proud and determined to defend Romania’s sovereignty and independence — and we do not stand alone,” he affirmed.
He reiterated Romania’s full support for the Republic of Moldova’s EU path, while acknowledging the hybrid threats Moldova continues to face.
Ambassador Stoenescu stressed that Romania’s membership in the EU, NATO, and its strategic partnership with the United States remain pillars of its foreign policy. In a rapidly changing world, he said, Romania remains a reliable and predictable partner committed to international peace and stability.
Concluding his address, the ambassador expressed optimism about the future of Romania–Pakistan relations.
“As we celebrate Romania’s National Day and over six decades of diplomatic relations, we look back with pride at all that our two countries have achieved together,” he said. “Our friendship continues to grow across culture, education, trade and security. By building on this solid foundation, we will deepen our partnership and open new avenues of cooperation.”
He closed his remarks with a message of friendship: “Romania–Pakistan dosti zindabad!”
