President Iohannis highlights in the message conveyed on the occasion of the National Day of France celebration, the fact that "there is a long and rich tradition of partnership and friendship " between Romania and France.
Here is the message of Klaus Iohannis:
"It gives me great pleasure to extend, on the National Day of the French Republic, on behalf of the Romanian people and on my own behalf, the warmest congratulations to the friend French people.
The 14th of July has become more than a celebration of France. For those who devote their entire efforts to promote the ideals of freedom, equality and fraternity of the French Revolution, July 14 is a special moment.
France and Romania are profoundly connected by history, language and culture through many shared experiences and the building of a special affinity in history, including the recent one. The close relationship between our countries finds its pragmatic expression in the strategic partnership, formalized in 2008, but reflects a much older reality.
It is the appropriate framework to strengthen our bilateral relationship in various fields - political, economic, education, energy and health. Between the Romanian and French peoples there is a kind of reciprocal openness that enables a predictable relationship based on trust, for the benefit of both countries. I was glad to see this personal sense of openness and trust during my visit to Paris on February 10.
I firmly believe that the bilateral relationship between France and Romania may strengthen, and also the European Union, in a time when unity and solidarity are most needed. Fundamental principle of EU solidarity calls us today to act on its behalf and show that European states have the power to work together in a complex environment.
The success of this European construction lies in many things and we must recognize and honor the role of France in this respect. France has always assumed and has always been at the forefront to defend the principles of liberty, equality and fraternity. This was also highlighted recently during the attacks against the essential nature of these values, committed in the name of extremism turned into terrorism.
The infamous attacks in France in January and June of this year showed how fragile the preservation of these principles can be. But they have demonstrated the power of national and European solidarity and stressed their determination to remain faithful to these principles: freedom of expression, religious freedom, respect for equality between all members of society. France has coped admirably with this terror and finally came out stronger. Romania is proud to have been able to demonstrate its support in these difficult times, as always between true friends.
As I said, we have a long and rich tradition of partnership and friendship between Romania and France. This entitles me to believe that we face a long road ahead, a future in which we will be together, we will share experiences and challenges. But good friends know that there is a time to work and a time to celebrate together. Today marks a great celebration – Happy National Day of France and may the Franco-Romanian friendship live. "
Source: Presidential Administration