The Embassy of Romania in Pretoria hosted their National Day, celebrating their 105th anniversary on the 29th of November 2023, at the Pretoria National Botanical Gardens.
H.E. Ms. Monica Sitaru welcomed members of the Diplomatic Corps, distinguished guests, and representatives of the Romanian community.
On December 1st, 1918, the dreams of all Romanians were fulfilled with the unity of all of Romania. This has been the fundamental and historical birthday of the nation, a country that is active on the international stage, a reliable member of the EU and NATO, profoundly anchored in the realities of the 21st century, with the capacity to convey trust and grant stability in its geographical region.
The Romanian profile has grown significantly at both regional European and global levels.
Significant strides have been achieved in bilateral relations over the past year. The Romanian Assistance program for rural and township schools, spearheaded by the Embassy, delivered 50,000 Euros worth of electronic IT equipment and learning materials to schools in Centurion, East London, and rural townships in the Eastern Cape.
Commenting on people-to-people relations, H.E. Ms. Sitaru mentioned an increase in projects and cooperation in the fields of education, medicine, business, and sport. Simultaneously, there has been an increase in the number of Romanian tourists wishing to visit South Africa.
Romania has adopted a forward-looking national strategy titled ‘Romania-Africa Partnership for the Future for Peace, Development, and Education.’ This strategy framework not only recognizes Africa’s crucial global role but also reflects Romania’s dedication to strengthening ties with the continent. The strategy outlines specific ways to strengthen relations with Africa, exploring new avenues in education, business, and security, while also venturing into emerging areas like digitalization and knowledge exchange on shared interests such as climate protection and cybersecurity.
Deputy Director General Ms. Lerato Mataboge congratulated Romania on the celebration of the National Day.
Relations between South Africa and Romania date back to South Africa’s struggle for liberation. The friendship and solidarity cultivated during that time have since grown stronger. The momentous occasion on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2016, when the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of both countries signed the protocol of political consultations between South Africa and Romania, paved the way for growth between both nations.
Earlier this year, a senior official consultation meeting was held, further solidifying the bilateral relations between the two countries.
To peace and prosperity, happy National Day Romania!
by Marion Kate
