Tazeen Akhtar | Islamabad
Ambassador of Romania Dr. Dan Stoenescu and his team in Islamabad hosted a reception at the Romanian Residence to celebrate Independence Day of Romania in collaboration with Peshawar Barracks , a four star hotel in the heart of Peshawar with a historical legacy.
Honorary Consul of Romania in Peshawar Mr. and Mrs. Masood Ahmad Qazi brought the colors of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from Peshawar Barracks, established in 1967 and contributed a lot in making the reception a memory that will be cherished for a long time ahead.
It was KP Evening with Pakhtoon cuisine with live BBQ , traditional music and dance performance side by side with Romanian traditional culture including the dresses of the staff , white shirts with mosaic work on them in different colors and designs that resembled Pakistani traditional dresses.
The Ambassador in his address shared information about the history on Independence Day of Romania. He said, 10 May is our Independence day in 1877 and it is the Day of Romanian Monarchy as well. It is close to Europe Day, which is 09 May. Romania is a proud member of the EU and NATO.
The 10th of May has never been celebrated before in Pakistan. For this reason, we wished to inaugurate a new tradition and celebrate together with our Pakistani friends and members of the diplomatic corps in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
“May 10 holds a triple historical significance for Romania and is today celebrated as Romania’s National Independence Day. Historically, it also served as Romania’s National Day (1866–1947), marking the arrival of Prince Carol I in Romania (1866), the proclamation of State Independence (1877), and the coronation of Romania’s first King (1881). We celebrate this day just one day after we celebrated Europe Day together with all EU member states, Ambassador detailed.
He expressed solidarity with Ukraine. He said, ” We strongly support the independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine.”
Mr. Masood Ahmad Qazi , showcasing his province Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, shed light on the history of hospitality of KP. He expressed gratitude to the Ambassador for providing a platform where the real Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has been introduced.
He said, we have brought the message of peace, love and graciousness from our province. He said, we are not difficult people to handle. We are friends. You take one step towards us and we will take two steps towards you.
About the history of wars, Masood said, KP has always been at the front foot in the wars in this region. KP has been subjected to great losses ( of lives and infrastructure)but we are hopeful that we can cover up with the support of the international community.
He welcomed the guests to visit Peshawar where they will be welcomed warmly.
A large number of ambassadors and diplomats from EU countries and others , business representatives, media persons were present at the occasion
Alongside Romanian traditional dances and costumes, the theme of this year’s Romanian National Independence Day celebration was Romanian–Pakistani friendship and the culture of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province in northwestern Pakistan.
Guests enjoyed a rabab concert, traditional Pashtun dances, and authentic dishes such as spicy Chapli Kebab, fragrant Kabuli Pulao, and slowly cooked Dum Pukht.
