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Next year marks the
end of communism in Europe. Nearly 30 years ago, nations across Central Europe chose the path of freedom, freeing themselves from tyranny, and committed to a future of liberty, free markets, and prosperity.
As President Trump said, “The captive nations of Europe endured a brutal campaign to demolish their freedom, faith, laws, history, and identity
– the very essence of their culture and humanity – at the hands of a cruel and wicked system that impoverished their cities and their souls.” The sacrifice and vision of
the Romanian people to join the transatlantic community and transform their economy and society resulted in the freedom that millions had longed for during decades of darkness.
As Romania prepares to celebrate its centenary in December 2018 and its historic decision in favor
of self-determination, it is appropriate to reflect on how far Romania has come. After two devastating World Wars, economic hardships, stifling communism, and a challenging period of transition, Romania’s entry into NATO in 2004 signaled the country’s
entry into the transatlantic community. Romania took a further step with accession to the European Union and
entry into the transatlantic economy in 2007. These two institutions mark Romania’s modern vision: a nation and a people that are firmly pro- European, transatlantic, and committed to the ideals and values of our shared Western civilization.
Romania also entered into a third international undertaking earlier in its post-transition period – the U.S.-Romania Strategic Partnership. Our Strategic Partnership
is rooted in our mutual commitment to democratic values, including the rule of law, open markets, respect for and promotion of human rights, and strong bonds between the people of our nations.
As President Clinton said during his historic speech in University Square on July 11,
1997, “As long as Romania proceeds down democracy's road, America will walk by your side.” Over 20 years later, the United States and Romania are allies bound together to shape an international order that advances global security, democratic governance, and prosperity.
United States and Romania have collaborated closely, strengthening bilateral relations, bolstering mutual security, supporting Romania’s
democratic development and Euro-Atlantic integration, fostering economic prosperity, and facing regional and global challenges.
Robust defense cooperation is a vital part of the U.S.-Romania Strategic Partnership. Romania is a staunch Ally and the United States will never forget the sacrifices made
by Romanian service members serving alongside American soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan. Today, Romania stands as
the fourth-largest contributor of troops in Afghanistan and is an active security provider in the Western Balkans as well.
Recently, our security relationship has taken
on greater depth and importance, perhaps best exemplified by the successful completion of the Deveselu Ballistic Missile Defense site in 2015. The United States and Romania have worked together closely to ensure swift and full implementation of NATO Warsaw Summit commitments, including establishing the first Romanian-led multinational battalion.
A strengthened Alliance air and maritime presence in the Black Sea region demonstrates
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