Romania-Armed-Forces-Day Highlights NATO Solidarity, Strengthening Romania–Pakistan Defence Cooperation
Romanian Ambassador Dan Stoenescu Highlights Growing Defence Ties with Pakistan
Islamabad – 21 October 2026 (Adnan Hameed) : The Romanian Ambassador to Pakistan has Dan Stoenescu reaffirmed Romania’s commitment to strengthening bilateral defence and military cooperation with Pakistan, highlighting growing ties in joint training, counterterrorism, military education, naval cooperation and defence industry development.
Addressing a reception marking Romania’s Armed Forces Day on October 25, the Ambassador Stoenescu paid tribute to the Romanian Armed Forces and honoured the sacrifices and services of military personnel in safeguarding national security and contributing to international peace and stability.
The event was attended by Air Marshal Shakeel Ghazanfer, Deputy Chief of Air Staff (Projects), along with senior military officials, diplomats and distinguished guests.
Highlighting the positive trajectory of Romania–Pakistan relations, the Ambassador referred to the fourth session of the Joint Military Committee, held in Islamabad in February 2026. The meeting explored new avenues for bilateral defence cooperation, including joint counterterrorism training, Air Force training courses, exchanges in military education, joint naval training and collaboration in the defence industry.
According to press note, he expressed confidence that these discussions would translate into practical initiatives, further strengthening military ties and enhancing cooperation between the armed forces of both countries.
The Ambassador also commended Pakistan’s Armed Forces for their professionalism, dedication and sacrifices in combating terrorism, as well as their contributions to United Nations peacekeeping missions and international efforts to promote peace and humanitarian assistance.
Discussing the broader security environment, the Ambassador highlighted Romania’s commitment to NATO’s collective defence and European security amid continuing challenges arising from Russia’s war against Ukraine and rising tensions in the Black Sea region. He underscored Romania’s efforts to modernise its Armed Forces, strengthen air and missile defence capabilities, and invest in advanced military technologies.
He further reaffirmed Romania’s continued support for Ukraine and its active participation in international peacekeeping and security initiatives, including the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP).
The Ambassador emphasised that Romania and Pakistan shared opportunities to expand cooperation through sustained dialogue, professional military exchanges and mutually beneficial defence initiatives.
On the occasion, the Ambassador, Defence Attaché, and Chief Guest jointly cut the commemorative cake to celebrate Romania’s Armed Forces Day.
Concluding his address, he acknowledged Pakistan’s continued efforts to promote peace and stability in the region and expressed optimism about the future of bilateral relations.
“Romania–Pakistan Dosti Zindabad,” he declared, reaffirming the enduring friendship between the two countries and their shared commitment to strengthening cooperation for regional and international peace and security.
