INE ’CLOCK N SUPPLEMENTS Greece - 197 Years of Independence

H.E. Mr. Vassilis Papadopoulos, Congratulatory message Ambassador of Hellenic Republic in Romania: from Romania’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Romania and Greece, traditional friends and Sharing a common history since ancient allies, enhance their relationship in all fields of times, Romania and Greece are proudly honoring mutual interest, towards a prosperous future today the past for projecting an within the EU enhanced partnership in the future g Page 4 g Page 4

The Positive Impetus Christodoulos Seferis, President of the Hellenic Romanian Bilateral Chamber of Commerce: of Bilateral Economic & Commercial Greece - one of the most Relations Continues modern member states of the European Union

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H.E. Mr. Vassilis Papadopoulos, Ambassador of Hellenic Republic in Romania: Romania and Greece, traditional friends and allies, enhance their relationship in all fields of mutual interest, towards a prosperous future within the EU

On the 25th of March, we, the Greek the Trilateral Format of the Ministers Tourist Offices of Romania, Greece steadi- people, celebrate the 197th anniversary of Foreign Affairs of Greece, Bulgaria and ly remains a summer destination for the 1821 Revolution against the Ottoman Romania (held in Bucharest), Ministers more than 1,3 million Romanian rule that led to the founding of the Hellenic Kotzias, Zaharieva and Melescanu stressed tourists. The flights between Bucharest Republic. In Romania, the celebration has a once more our three countries’ firm support and Athens are frequent, since 3 airline special significance for the Greek people, for a stronger, consolidated, cohesive and companies are currently connecting the two since the first heroic battles took place here, prosperous European Union and under- capitals. We hope that the strong cultural in Dragasani and Focsani. It is of great lined the key importance of our neighbour- links between our countries will inspire importance the fact that the struggle for ing regions for the security and stability in also more Greek tourists to visit Greek Independence started from the Europe. They also acknowledged that a safe, Romania. peaceful and prosperous neighbourhood of Principalities, being organised and support- In the field of culture and education, we ed by “Filiki Etaireia”, a patriotic association our countries is of direct interest for the European and the Euro-Atlantic area as a should underline the valuable contribution created by the prosperous and important of the Bucharest Branch of the Hellenic Greek diaspora. Nowadays, the flourishing whole. Last, but not least, they stressed the interest of our three member states to pur- Foundation of Culture, the outstanding Hellenic community in Romania is con- Department of Greek Studies of the tributing remarkably to the creation of close sue a close dialogue on EU affairs towards the common objective to consolidate the University of Bucharest, the Lectorate of ties between our two countries. European project. Greek Language of the University of Iasi, Due to our longstanding friendship and As far as the economy field is concerned the Greek School of Bucharest “Athena”, as our historic and cultural ties, our high-level ,the continuous inflow of Greek Direct well as the educational and cultural activity political cooperation is growing even Investments, despite the crisis, represents of the Hellenic Union of Romania and the stronger. Our two countries work together one of the core characteristics of the Greek Cultural Association “Nostos”. in bilateral, European, Euro-Atlantic and er of the accession of Romania to the economic and trade relations between the Furthermore, a centuries old tradition of multilateral level and also within the frame- Schengen area. Our countries, aiming at two countries. At the end of 2017, the Publishing Houses is still active, promoting work of many international and regional consolidating stability and development in invested capital of Greek companies in publications concerning Greek history, cul- organizations. Since the 1990’s, Greece our neighbourhood, also work closely with- Romania was estimated around 1,82 bi- ture and politics to Romanian readers. spared no effort to strongly support in the framework of the South East llion euros. The number of registered Romania in its aspirations to join both Moreover, it is worth mentioning that at Cooperation Process (SEECP), the Black companies of Greek capital or participa- least 1,000 Greek students study at NATO and EU. Today, our two countries Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC) and the tion reached the amount of 6,988. The Romanian Universities. are strong partners and allies within the EU Southeast European Law Enforcement total value of the Greek Direct Invest- and NATO, maintain excellent relations Center (SELEC). Greece and Romania also Last but not least, the Greek presence in ments in Romania exceeds the amount of Romania is also enhanced by an active and are connected with strong ties of soli- work jointly towards achieving the diversifi- 4 billion euros. According to these data, Diaspora. The Hellenic Union of Romania darity and multifaceted cooperation in cation of energy supply sources and routes Greece ranks 7th among the foreign many areas of common interest. We both and towards developing important regional investors in Romania. About 20,000 job represents the historical community, which, support the strengthening of the European energy infrastructure projects, including positions have been created in Romania by inspired by an outstanding past, looks for- project by means of enhancing the unity natural gas interconnectors and relevant Greek businesses during the years. The ward to the future with dynamism and cre- and cohesion in the EU. In this respect, we international projects (TAP, IGB/IBR) as bilateral Chamber of Commerce and ativity. both believe that european integration well as the enhancement of the role of the Industry, in Bucharest, contributes sig- In conclusion, allow me to stress my should remain firmly focused on a set of Energy Union in Southeastern Europe, aim- nificantly towards the strengthening of the optimism that our long standing friendship principles of utmost importance for both ing at the creation of energy networks which economic ties between the two countries. and our fruitful multilevel cooperation will the Union itself and its citizens, namely will connect Southeastern Europe with Another very important field of colla- create mutually advantageous results and democracy, solidarity and the rule of law. Central and Northern Europe. A few days boration between Greece and Romania is more opportunities for a prosperous future Moreover, Greece remains a steady support- ago, on March the 12th, at the Meeting of tourism. According to the Association of that our two countries deserve. Congratulatory message from Romania’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Sharing a common history since ancient times, Romania and Greece are proudly honoring today the past for projecting an enhanced partnership in the future The celebration of the National Day of affairs of Romania, Bulgaria and Greece The two communities - the Romanian bring its contribution to the further consoli- the Hellenic Republic, on the 25th of March, proved that we are firmly committed to one in Greece and the Hellenic one in dation of the European project, sustaining provides us with the pleasure to extend, on intensify the dialogue and enhance our coop- Romania - have an essential role in strength- and promoting pro-European solutions and behalf of Romania, our heartfelt congratula- eration, as countries from the same region, ening the ties between our countries. For so policies that will bring added value to the tions to all the Greek people. with many similar views. many centuries, they stand as a defining ele- integration process, such as the ones in the The priceless value this day brings to light Besides political dialogue, there is much ment for our relations, revealing their long- field of cohesion and convergence or regard- is one of the most sacred ideals for interest from both countries in further devel- standing tradition, as well as the joint com- ing EU relations with its neighbors. humankind: freedom. And it was this outcry oping their economic and sectoral coopera- mitment of our peoples to further consoli- While recalling that the ancestors of our - „Freedom or death!” that sparked the Greek tion. In terms of trade exchanges, the current date the solid bridge of friendship that unites peoples have lived together in peace and Revolution for Independence almost two trend is more than encouraging, as they are at us. Regional cooperation is another impor- understanding in this area since times lost in centuries ago, which found its echo in other their best moment in the history of econom- tant component of our dialogue, as it illus- the mist of history, Romania and Greece are several areas inhabited by peoples driven by ic relations between Romania and Greece, trates our joint objectives to further ensure today pillars of stability in a region not hid- the same ideal, including in a part of modern with a total amount of almost 1,8 bld. Euro and consolidate peace, security and stability den from challenges, but also with important Romania. We are truly proud that our pred- in 2017. Through joint efforts, we have in our common area, while firmly supporting opportunities to explore and capitalize. ecessors, both Romanian and Greek, gath- worked for boosting the relations in this the Euro-atlantic perspective of the aspiring Therefore, we need to further act responsibly, ered their strong believes and common aspi- domain, one relevant example being the states in the region. We have convergent placing dialogue at the core of the relations rations around this burning ideal, for which event „Doing business in Romania”, which objectives and interests on a number of files with all our partners, while remaining com- they were ready to pay the ultimate price and took place in July 2017 at the Chamber of such as the Western Balkans, the Eastern mitted to the values we believe in. Greece has that have later turned into reality, a reality of Commerce and Industry of Athens. Yet, we Neighborhood or the Black Sea region, proven both its willing and capacity to find the freedom of nations. have to explore and capitalize the important which serve as basis for joint initiatives and and promote a balanced approach, which is Sharing a common history since ancient potential that still exists for further develop- common projects. the key to overcome impediments and to times, Romania and Greece are proudly hon- ing our economic relations, also in the area of On the European agenda, the states are move forward, projecting a future of friend- oring today the past as a strong pillar for mutual investments, for which we have in advocating for a strong and cohesive ship and mutual respect among countries upgrading the level of their current dialogue mind the organization of similar events this European Union, close to its citizens and and people. Therefore, all it needs to do is to and cooperation, as well as for projecting an year. Among the other fields with significant based on the principles and values that unite keep up the good work and the results will enhanced partnership in the future. The potential to improve our cooperation, one its member states. In the perspective of exer- certainly be there, which is just as valid for all recent bilateral contacts as well as the 10th could mention energy, infrastructure, cising, for the first time, in 2019, the of us. trilateral meeting of the ministers of foreign defense, education, culture or tourism. Presidency of the EU Council, Romania will Happy National Day, Greece! NINE O’CLOCK • FRIDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 23-25 2018 PAGE 5 SPECIAL PAGE 6 SPECIAL NINE O’CLOCK • FRIDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 23-25 2018 The Positive Impetus of Bilateral Economic & Commercial Relations Continues The economic and commercial relations between Greece and Romania are of great importance for both countries and have proved to be solid over the years, presenting constantly increasing dynamics. Due to the geographical proximity, cultural bonds that survived throughout the years, and the common interests in the sectors of bilateral trade, investment and tourism, Greece and Romania are consistently improving their close cooperation. Bilateral Trade steadily increases

In 2017 the bilateral trade presented new impetus. According to the statistics pro- vided by the Hellenic Statistical Authority (EL.STAT), the bila- teral trade between Greece and Romania amounted to 1,766.2 billion euros. Greek exports to Romania amounted to 871.43 million, representing an increase of 13,31%, while imports from Romania were 894.8 million, representing an increase of 16,22% compared to 2016. According to the statistics provided by the Romanian National Institute of Statistics (INS), the bilateral trade during the 11 first months of 2017 reached the amount of 1,271.28 millions euros from which Greek exports to Romania represented 796.42 million Euros with an increase of 9.55% and Romanian exports to Greece represented 812.17 million euros with an important increase of 19.58%. Romania ranks 17th among the leading providers of Greece and 16th as a “client country”. However, bilateral trade still does not reflect the real potential (mainly in view of the geographical proximity) of the trade relations between the two countries, but we are confident that in the coming years it will reach 2 billion euros. For 2018, an increase of around 10% is expected in bilateral trade. According to the latest data of the Hellenic Statistical Authority (EL.STAT), the most important food products exported from Greece to Romania are fruits and vegetables (oranges, kiwis, peaches, strawberries, water melons, apples, etc.) taking into consideration that Romania is the first mar- ket for Greek export of fruits, absorbing 185,000 tones of fruits and vegetables, followed by fruits and vegetables in cans (peaches-apricots in tins and tomato paste) and Greek tradi- tional food like olives, oil olive, feta cheese, marmalades, pasta etc. Other important products exported to Romania are copper and iron products, plastic products, cosmetics and toys. The direct contact of Romanians with Greek cuisine during their holidays has also contributed to the entrance of Greek agricultural and dairy products in the Romanian market, a trend which is expected to continue. Finally, Greek fashion brands in the field of shoes, clothes and jewellery have had a positive impact on Romanian fashion market.

Greek Investments in Romania

During the last decades, Romania has been an important destination for Greek investments. In the end of 2017, Greece ranked 7th among the countries that invested in Romania, with 6,988 companies of Greek participation registered at the Commercial Registry of Romania, the total invest- ment of which surpassed 1,8 bn euros (ONRC). Based on the ONRC data, 410 new companies of Greek interest were established in Romania during 2017 and the share of the total Greek invested capital in Romania reached up to 4.18%. According to the estimations of the Office for Economic and Commercial Affairs of the Embassy of Greece in Romania, over 1,500 Greek companies are currently active in Romania, with the total invested capital of companies of Greek interest surpassing 4 billion euros, taking into consideration the volume of investments of Greek capital companies, their capital increase, their ca- pital transfers through other countries (Cyprus, the Netherlands, Luxembourg) as well as the absorption of European Funds. Greek investments are covering a wide spectrum of sectors: banking sector (Alpha Bank, Bancpost, Banca Romanieasca, Piraeus Bank), food and beverages (Chipita, Olympos Dairy, Ifantis, KB Karamolegos, Best Foods, Coca-Cola HBC, Alexandrion Group, Valvis Holding etc.), wholesale, retail and distribution networks (Genco Trade, Elgeka Ferfelis, Sarantis, Jumbo etc.), production of metallic products (ICME-ECAB, Alumil, Etem, Siderom etc.), building materials (Black Sea Suppliers, Isomat, Atlas Corporation etc.), health services and equipment (Medsana, Sofmedica, Euromedics, Imedica, Cytogenomic etc.), agriculture and livestock (FATROM, Minco etc.), consulting and legal services (ICAP, TPG Group, law firms Rokas, E. Navridis, Drakopoulos etc.), constructions (Aktor, Octagon etc). The companies pertaining to Greek interests, vary in size from medium to large scale and employ currently almost 20,000 employees. New investments were made during recent years, including investments by CocaCola HBC (Hellenic Bottling Company), ICME-ECAB, ALUMIL, FATROM, Divertiland etc). continued on page 9 NINE O’CLOCK • FRIDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 23-25 2018 PAGE 7 SPECIAL

Christodoulos Seferis, President of the Hellenic Romanian Bilateral Dr. Dragos Gabriel Zisopol, Member of the Chamber of Commerce: Romanian Parliament and President of the Greece - one of the most Hellenic Union in Romania: modern member states A good opportunity for Greek of the European Union and Romanian People to reflect on sustainable “On the 25th of March each year, the Hellenic world celebrates relations between the two states solemnly with national pride the th th struggles of our ancestors who On the 25 of March, we, the Greek people, celebrate the 197 believed in the nation's ideals and Anniversary of the 1821 Revolution against the Ottoman rule. laid the foundations for an inde- It is the date when Greece commemorates its heroes who died for pendent state. After difficult and freedom and independence. painful progress and relying main- The ideal of freedom and national sovereignty inspired the Greek ly on its own forces, Greece ma- revolution. It was "FREEDOM OR DEATH" that motivated the naged to establish itself as a mo- Greek heroic fight against the Ottoman rule. dern member state of the European Union. The outbreak of the Hellenic revolution, in 1821, on the territory Today, our country is taking a of Moldavia and Walachia, and the heroic acts of the Greeks and of difficult test in its struggle to those who shared their ideals constitute a common point of reference in overcome the economic crisis, the history of Greece and Romania. which in recent years has substan- After seven years of war, countless human sacrifices and material tially reduced the national pro- losses, in 1828 the Greek State started to make its appearance, as a re- duct. The Greeks have managed ality in the European map. to create innovative know-how in numerous sectors of the global Today, 197 years after the outbreak of the revolution, its message economy, such as shipping, trans- remains still valid: DEMOCRACY, DIGNITY, FREEDOM, PROS- port, tourism, food industry, Greek shareholders operating in the strive to reconstruct the PERITY for the country and its people. aquaculture, building materials, Romania as well as a significant Greek state. The anniversary of the Centennial in Romania provides a good organic products, services, com- number of joint ventures, the Finally, I would like to extend opportunity for the Greek and Romanian people to further enhance the merce, and are ready at all times, Hellenic-Romanian Chamber of a wish to those who believe that traditional relations between the two states, based on the friendship that in cooperation with entrepre- Commerce is continuously the progress of the national guided their common path throughout history. neurs, professionals and all forms endeavouring and taking initia- revival is based first and utmost of creative initiatives, to make tives to develop bilateral trade on the nation’s own forces, In this context, the members of the Hellenic Union of Romania valuable use of their knowledge and economic relations. This inspired by the ideals and tradi- honor the memory of the heroes that lost their lives in the struggle for and experience for the mutual effort is currently assuming a spe- tions of its people, and who freedom and independence. benefit. cial role, aspiring to make the remain firmly supportive of On behalf of all members of the Hellenic Union of Romania, I wish In this context, representing most of every kind of entrepre- strengthening mutual alliances. "HAPPY NATIONAL DAY" to all Greeks and philhellenes around the the majority of companies with neurial initiative and to support Happy National Day!” world. PAGE 8 SPECIAL NINE O’CLOCK • FRIDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 23-25 2018 Wonderful Greece Love at First Sight is a country that holds plenty of myths and traditions, a place heavy with history and culture. Choose to travel to the Greececountry not only for its incomparable islands but also for its fascinating mainland packed with less-known destina- tions. This is the land you’ll fall in love with at a glance so let the country’s historical wealth and the ongoing sunshine captivate you. We give you 5+1 reasons to visit us. There are many more and it is up to you to discover them. Imposing Art and Culture Greece is endowed with a long history and a fasci- nating culture. Enjoy centuries-old art and explore the country’s history manifested in every corner of Greek land: findings from Prehistoric and Archaic Periods; Classical, Hellenistic, Medieval and Byzantine monu- ments; folk artifacts; evidence of other civilizations and religions being present at some point of the coun- try’s history. This is where the past meets the present and where old structures and art coexist with modern society. Arts such as architecture, sculpture, pottery, weav- ing, music, jewellery making and painting are present throughout Greece’s history. The country has more than 100 imposing archaeo- logical sites, numerous ancient theatres, agoras, great temples most of which are included in the list of UNESCO’s World Heritage Monuments. Walk along roads steeped in history, visit museums and monu- ments around the country and listen to the echoes of the past!

waters and their diversity (pebbly, sandy, rocky etc.). Tasteful Treasures Islands Blessed Enjoy sheltered bays and coves, coastal caves, with Light long sandy, pebbly, rocky or dark sandy “volcanic” Greek cui- beaches, sand dunes and others with a story to tell... sine is irre- Hundreds of beaches in Greece receive the “Blue sistible; its fla- Flag” Award every year. It’s up to you to discover vourful recipes them and enjoy their amenities. If you’re in the use a large vari- mood for some action, indulge in waters sports or ety of quality other fun beach games! products, cle- verly combined, telling age-old Mesmerising Mainland secrets handed Greece may well be famous for its islands but the down from ge- mainland holds some treasures well worth exploring. neration to ge- Imposing mountains, rich ecosystems, rivers and neration. The lakes create an amazing ensemble. Visit historic basic ingredi- monuments known across the world as well as mag- ents that make Greek sovereign land includes 6,000 islands and nificent religious structures. Welcome to an impos- islets scattered in the Aegean and Ionian Seas, of this cuisine so ing and thrilling land, feel that you become part of tempting are which only 227 islands are inhabited. A unique phe- its nature and enjoy activities and local cuisine. nomenon for the European continent. fresh produce, herbs, spices, the renowned Greek olive oil and of Most of the islands are found in the Aegean Sea course… simplicity! and are divided into seven groups (from north to Taste the produce of Greek meat, the freshly caught fish, savoury south): The Northeastern Aegean Islands, The seafood, the handpicked healthy fruits, vegetables, pulses and the Sporades, Evia, the Islands ofArgosaronic, The world-famous cheese. Don’t forget to accompany your meal with a glass Cyclades, The Dodecanese and Crete. The Ionian of Greek wine, ouzo or tsipouro. Cheers and Bon Appétit! Sea has one island complex The Ionian Islands. There’s an island that is just right for you. Are you interested in culture and arts, family holidays or action (water and extreme sports), a bustling or serene atmosphere, do you prefer a cosmopolitan or rustic style? You name it, they’ve got it! The Greek Islands have evolved and taken part in some of Europe’s most renowned ancient civiliza- tions, such as the Cycladic or the Minoan; they are home to a large number ofarchaeological sites, fea- turing unique architecture and charming local tradi- tions. Mind Blowing Beaches Greece’s coastline is among the longest in the world – approximately 16.000 km. Its shores are world-famous and known for their crystal clear Memorable Travel Experience Greeks are descendants of Zeus Xenios (the God of hospitality) so you can expect the agricultural activities, in rustic festivals, in vibrant nightlife, in tours of historic towns and locals to welcome you warmly wherever you go. You’ll be offered a world of opportunities stone built villages. Drink in the view of the country’s sublime nature and its serene sun- to create your own memorable experiences throughout Greece, year round. sets. Make sure to savour its tantalizing dishes by the sea or on a mountain top; take your Participate in Greek customs and traditions, in Easter or Christmas celebrations, in pick and let Greece spoil you! Nine O'Clock thanks the Greek Embassy in Bucharest and the Greek National Tourism Organization - Romania Office for their support. NINE O’CLOCK • FRIDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 23-25 2018 PAGE 9 SPECIAL The Positive Impetus of Bilateral Economic & Commercial Relations Continues Greece: An all year favorite destination for Romanians continued from page 6 Greece once again became the first tourist destination for Romanians. We would like to thank the Romanian Association of Tour Operators “ANAT” as well as the Romanian people who visit our country. Overall, in 2017, Greece received around 30 million fo- reigners who spent over 15 billion euros. According to the official data from ELSTAT, in the first nine months of 2017 about 1,073,500 Romanian tourists arrived in Greece in comparison to 947,200 tourists du- ring the same period of 2016, representing an impressive increase of 13.3%. According to the data from ANAT in 2017 the number of Romanian tourists that travelled to Greece exceeded 1,300,000 persons. The average Romanian tourist visiting Greece stays about 7 days and spends appro- ximately 400, without taking into account the travel expenses. Their main destinations are: the Region of Northern Greece and in particular Halkidiki, Thasos, Pieria and Thessaloniki, as well as Evoia, the Ionian Islands and Parga. The charter flights during the summer to Athens, Rhodes, Crete, Zakynthos, Skiathos, Cyclades as well as charter flights to Athens from Contanta, Cluj and other cities further enhance travelling to regions of Southern Greece. During 2017, the number of traffic by air increased by 16,82% in comparison to 2016. According to the Greek Civil Aviation Authority, 335,270 people travelled from Romania to Greece, out of which 302,640 travelled by air from Bucharest to Athens and 32,631 to other destinations. There are 3 direct flights per day between Bucharest and Athens, one from Bucharest to Thessaloniki and soon one more from Cluz to Athens will be added in the flight map. During their stay in Greece, Romanian tourists enjoy the Mediterranean cuisine, the ‘philoxenia’ (hospitality) of the Greek people, benefitting from the sea and the sun and expe- riencing specialized kinds of tourism, such as religious, culinary and health tourism, as well as agrotourism or conference tourism. It is well known that Greece is a destination for all seasons and all preferences. In 2018, Greece is expected to attract even more tourists from Romania than in previous years, given the fact that the country remains a well - known destination of preference for Romanians. It is stable and secure, with a variety of landscape, hospitable throughout the year providing high quality products and a wide spectrum of holiday activities. Furthermore, as Romanians tend to have a better acquaintance of Greece, they are more inclined to discover more and more Greek destinations, including Northern Aegean Islands (Samos, Lesvos, Ikaria, Chios, Limnos), the Peloponnese Region, Epirus, Thessaly and more Cycladic Islands. The result oriented ongoing work carried out by the governments, investors and businessmen of both countries is reflected in the statistics mentioned above. In addition, the Greek Romanian Chamber of Commerce plays a significant role in the enhancement of networking between Greek and Romanian companies for the exploration of potential synergies. We aim at further increasing our bilateral economic and commercial ties to the mutual benefit of our nations. Therefore, we are working on increasing our bilateral trade up to 2 billion euros, mutually enhancing foreign direct investments, increasing the tourist flows from both sides, continuing our cooperation in the European Union context and also col- laborating in the field of transfer of know - how in tourism and implementation of European Union Programmes. PAGE 10 SPECIAL NINE O’CLOCK • FRIDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 23-25 2018 Romania and Greece have long lasting cultural and educational ties Our countries have a long history of cultural Department is also a research center, it organizes and educational activities and exchanges that con- lectures, conferences and cultural events and publi- tinues to our days. In the 18th century, two Greek shes research papers. In 2017, the Department, in Academies were founded in the Principalities, one in cooperation with the Museum of Braila “Carol I” Bucharest (Academia Domneasca de la Bucuresti) and the Cultural Association “Protagoras”, orga- and one in Iasi (Academia Domneasca din Iasi). nized an exhibition dedicated to the life and work of Their fame had spread all around Europe and Andreas Embeirikos, one of the most famous surre- important personalities, Romanian and Greeks, were alist Greek poets, who was born in Braila. His home among their graduates. In the 19th century, especial- was actually the Museum of Braila “Carol I”. ly after the Greek Revolution, Greek Schools operat- The Lectorate of Greek Studies of the ed in all cities where there were Greek Communities University “Al. I. Cuza” of Iasi, is offering courses (Braila, Galati, Constanta, Tulcea, Iasi and of Greek Language and Culture to numerous th Bucharest). In the 20 century, the famous Greek Romanian students. It is also a research center and School “Ellinika Ekpaideftiria” was founded in organizes conferences and cultural events. Bucharest. In 2008, the Greek School of Bucharest The first Theater of the Greek diaspora, the “Athena” was founded and has a prominent role “Theater of the Red Fountain”, was founded in among the international schools in Bucharest. It Bucharest by the Phanariot Princess Rallou Karadja. offers courses in Greek, Romanian and English to In 1819, the Theatre of the Red Fountain staged the Greek and Romanian students. An important outstanding Performance “Hecuba” by Euripide, fea- amount of scholarships is also granted by the Greek turing Ion Heliade Radulescu, a renowned Roma- business community in Romania. nian writer and linguist. At the same period, the Last but not least, our Greek diaspora in Greek Theater “Elpis” operated in Constanta. Romania is active in all educational and cultural ini- Furthermore, a centuries old tradition of tiatives. At least 1.000 Greek students study at Publishing Houses has promoted publications con- Romanian Universities. The Hellenic Union of cerning Greek history, culture and politics to Romania is offering courses of Greek language and Romanian readers. Romania is the second country in Europe where Greek literature has been so much dances in all its branches around the country with embraced by the public, since more than 460 books the support of teachers seconded by the Greek have been translated from Greek to Romanian. Ministry of Education. The Hellenic Union of Nowadays, the Bucharest Branch of the Hellenic Romania organizes every year the “Olympics of Foundation for Culture is promoting Greek lan- creator Dimitra Adamopoulou was presented, under Modern Greek Language”, so as to award the most guage, art and civilization to the Romanian and the title “The Coldest Summer”, dedicated to the brilliant students. The Greek Cultural Association international public. It is an active member of refugee crisis. For the National Day of Greece, the “Nostos” offers free theater and dance courses to EUNIC (“European Union National Institutes for Foundation, in cooperation with our Embassy, pre- Greeks and Romanians and has presented excellent Culture”) and participates in all its activities, sented a concert of classical music, in the magnifi- theater plays. In 2017, the play “Like a Shadow’s including the “The Night of the Cultural cent “Atheneum” theater. The “Athens String Dream” was presented in Arcub Theater, in coope- Institutes”, “The Night of European Literature”, Quartet” performed works of Greek composers, such ration with the Archeological Museum of Pella. The “The European Film Festival”, “The European as Carrer, Papanas and Skalkotas. Finally, the epic poem “The Free Besieged” of Dionysios Comics Festival”. Hellenic Foundation for Culture in Bucharest, in Solomos, the National Poet of Greece, was interpre- In 2017, the Hellenic Foundation for Culture cooperation with the Czech Center, presented the ted on stage, at the National Theater (Bucharest Branch) has organized a great variety of Dance Performance “Europium” of the group “I.L.Caragiale” of Bucharest. Finally, the Choir cultural events. The Exhibition of Modern Art “Rootlessroot” with the support of the “Onassis “Romiosyni” presented, in 2017, two concerts of “Romania-Cyprus-Greece” was presented, in coope- Cultural Center” of Athens. byzantine music held in the historic Chapel of our ration with “Melenia Art Gallery”, the Embassy of The Department of Classic Philology and Embassy. Cyprus and the Minovici Museum of Bucharest. The Modern Greek Studies of the University of Our goal remains to continue promoting the Foundation participated in the European Film Bucharest is offering an undergraduate degree pro- Greek language, art and civilization among Festival, that took place in Bucharest, in May 2017, gram, as well as a post-graduate degree program. An Romanians and among Greeks of our diaspora, as with the film “Silent” of Yorgos Gikapepas. For important amount of scholarships is granted by the well as to actively participate in the rich cultural and “The Comics Festival 2017”, an exhibition of the Greek business community in Romania. The educational scene of Romania. Sinaia hosts Greek-Romanian Choir Festival For the second consecutive year, Greek Union in Romania. tion of literary works on the topic Sinaia, the best-known mountain It must be said that Sinaia is not ‘The Greece from my heart.’ resort in Prahova Valley, has been the only town in Prahova where At the same time, on Saturday, selected to host a special festival events meant to outline the friend- March 17, the Greek Community organised in March to mark the ship between the Romanian and of Prahova organised a special cul- National Day of Greece. the Greek peoples will be orga- tural event, also dedicated to the To mark the national day of nised. Since the Greek Community National Day of Greece, its part- Greece, which is celebrated on in Prahova is one of the most active ners being the ‘Paul Con- March 25, the second edition of in Romania, considering that stantinescu’ Philharmonic of the Romanian-Greek Choir House lawmaker Dragos Gabriel Ploiesti and the Romanian Public Festival will take place in Sinaia, Zisopol, representative of Prahova, Broadcaster (TVR1). The event Prahova County, on 23 March is also the President of the Greek started with a Quilling and 2018. The event will start at 7 Union in Romania, one can say it Origami 3D exhibition, from p.m., at the Sinaia Casino, and will has become almost a tradition for which Greece’s national flag was feature songs interpreted by the this county to host shows and cul- not absent, and continued with a members of three choirs that came tural events dedicated to the music and dance show featuring from Greece particularly for this National Day of Greece. the Greek dance ensembles of the event, and the members of one Thus, also on Friday, March 23, Greek Union in Romania, namely Romanian choir. Concretely, we the ‘Nicolae Grigorescu’ National ‘Kymata’ and ‘Hara’ from Ploiesti, are talking about the ‘Nea Effessou College in Campina will host a ‘Asteria’ from Bucharest, and ‘Ilios’ & Leptokarias’ Choir, director special festivity to celebrate the from Targoviste, as well as the Boras Panagiotis, the ‘Afiton’ National Day of Greece, its sche- ‘Bosilce’ folk dance ensemble of Choir, director Fostiropoulos dule including the piano rendition the ‘Zaedno’ Association of Konstantinos, and the ‘Aphion’ of the anthem of Greece, presenta- Bulgarians in Targoviste. Live Choir, director Aggouridis Kostas, tions on the significance of the music was provided by the ‘Paul all three from Greece; and the National Day of Greece, exhibi- Constantinescu’ Philharmonic of ‘Dionysos’ Choir, director Dick tions of graphic art, painting and Ploiesti. Doscas, of the Brasov branch of the handicraft, as well as the presenta- by Elena Dumitru