The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) held a Public Talk under its Ambassadors Platform 2018 titled “Pakistan-Romania Relations” on January 23, 2018. The distinguished speaker on the occasion was H.E. Mr. Nicolaie Goia, Ambassador of Romania.
Welcoming the speaker and the guests, Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman ISSI reflected on the history of bilateral ties between Romania and Pakistan. He stated that Pakistan and Romania have enjoyed cordial relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1964. The relationship was particularly robust during the 1970-80s, as there was sizeable trade, economic activity and exchange of visits. Ambassador Mahmood said that very few people know that Romania assisted Pakistan in setting up the National Oil Refinery at Karachi and establishing cement and fertilizer plants in Pakistan. He stated that unfortunately by the end of Communist era following the anti-communist revolution in 1989, the subsequent changes in international situation led to a downturn in bilateral relations in terms of high level contacts and volume of trade. However, since Romania joined the European Union in 2007, considerable goodwill has been expressed by the Romanian leadership to further enhance relations with Pakistan in all fields.
