Romania to mark National Day of Friendship and Solidarity with Israel
Romanian Parliament President: 'True friendship is measured in the most difficult times – therefore now, more than ever, such a step needed'
By a majority of 241 supporters against only 3 opponents, the Romanian Parliament approved a bill on Tuesday, according to which Romania will observe a National Day of Friendship and Solidarity with Israel every May 14 – Israel's Independence Day.
On that day, Romanian state institutions will raise Israeli flags next to Romanian flags and the Parliament will organize a festive conference dedicated to the State of Israel.
According to the proposed bill, every year on this date there will be diplomatic, political, cultural, social and artistic events, which will include various presentations dedicated to history to strengthen ties between the two nations.
The diplomatic missions of Romania, as well as the central and local government authorities, will organize events to mark the National Day of Friendship and Solidarity between Romania and Israel.
"The law that we legislated today will create an excellent framework for the continued development and strengthening of our relationship with Israel; will strengthen and affirm the dynamic and special nature of cooperation between the countries; and will promote the common values we share," said the president of the Romanian Parliament, Alfred Robert Simonis.
He added: "It is customary to say that true friendship is measured in the most difficult times – so now, more than ever, such a step is needed."
The president of the Romanian Parliament also said that "the ongoing cooperation with the State of Israel, Romania's closest ally in the Middle East and a reliable partner in the world arena, is based, above all, on the trust and solidarity between the countries. This alliance is based on things that go beyond the interests of countries, diplomatic relations or strategic values. It is based on tradition, on deep friendships and mutual respect."
Israeli Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana expressed his appreciation: "The smooth passage of this law in both the Romanian Senate and Chamber of Deputies proves the depth and authenticity of our bilateral bond. Your friendship is indispensable."
"Amid the horrors of October 7, the Romanian Parliament and the Romanian government have risen to the occasion and expressed tremendous and unequivocal support for Israel. Your support and moral clarity will be remembered for centuries forward. And as I thank you today, Israel will thank you forever."
Dikla Aharon-Shafran is a correspondent for KAN 11 news.
