Romanian Parliament Designates Israel’s Independence Day as Official National Holiday

Romanian legislators, together with Speaker Ohana appearing on screen alongside the flags of Israel and Romania, convened on March 19, 2024.

On Tuesday, the Romanian Parliament passed a legislation designating May 14 as the National Day of Friendship and Solidarity between Romania and Israel. May 14, 1948 (5 Iyar 5708) is a significant day because it marks the declaration of Israel’s independence by David Ben Gurion.

The new law mandates the organization of various events such as diplomatic, political, cultural, social, and artistic activities every May 14 to celebrate and promote the deep-rooted Romanian-Israeli relations. Additionally, materials focusing on the history and advancement of bilateral ties will be showcased.

An integral part of the observance will involve the joint hoisting of the Romanian and Israeli flags by state institutions, along with a special parliamentary session dedicated to Israel. Romanian diplomatic missions worldwide and local municipalities will also host events commemorating the National Day of Friendship and Solidarity between the two nations.

Alfred-Robert Simonis, President of the Romanian Chamber of Deputies, emphasized the enduring partnership with Israel, highlighting trust and solidarity as its cornerstone. He underscored the historical, moral, and symbolic significance of the relationship, rooted in friendship and mutual respect. Simonis expressed optimism that the new law would further strengthen the Romanian-Israeli connection, emphasizing shared values and the dynamic nature of the partnership.

In a historical context, Henry Eaton’s account in “The Origins and Onset of the Romanian Holocaust” sheds light on Romania’s unique role during that dark period. Contrary to other Nazi-allied nations, Romania conducted its genocidal campaign independently, without direct Nazi involvement.

The aftermath of the Fascist regime in Romania saw justice served, with key leaders facing execution or imprisonment. Despite past atrocities, efforts were made to address war crimes, reflecting a complex chapter in Romanian history.

Knesset Speaker MK Amir Ohana commended the initiative to establish May 14 as the National Day of Friendship and Solidarity, attributing its introduction to MP Silviu Vexler. Ohana acknowledged Romania’s unwavering support for Israel, even during challenging times, underscoring the enduring diplomatic relations between the two nations.

The economic landscape between Israel and Romania in 2022 reveals a notable disparity in GDP, with Israel’s standing at 522 billion compared to Romania’s 301 billion. Trade figures indicate reciprocal exchanges, with Israel exporting goods worth 194 million to Romania and importing goods valued at 773 million from Romania.

Key exports from Israel to Romania included Refined Petroleum, Pesticides, and Cleaning Products, while Romania’s exports to Israel primarily comprised Refined Petroleum, Bovine products, and Vegetable Residues.

The significance of Romanian vegetable residue as a metaphor underscores the depth and complexity of the bilateral relationship between Romania and Israel, reflecting a nuanced narrative that transcends mere economic statistics.