Good afternoon,
It is an honor to join you today for the opening of the U.S. Embassy’s „We the People” exhibit here in Galaţi.
Allow me to extend a special thank you to Mayor Pucheanu for providing the outdoor venue for our exhibit. And thank you to Rector Barbu for hosting our reception in this beautiful historic building.
We appreciate the warm welcome we have received from the people of Galaţi who have come out today to see our exhibit, which celebrates and explores the relationship between the people of Romania and the United States.
The title of our exhibit, „We the People,” comes from the opening words of the U.S. Constitution, a document that enshrines the principles of democratic governance and individual rights.
These words speak to the shared values between the United States and Romania—values of liberty, self-determination, and mutual respect.
These are the same values that have underpinned our long-standing bilateral relationship, one that is as vibrant today as it has ever been.
It is fitting that we celebrate our long-standing strategic partnership here, in Galati – a city with deep historical significance in U.S.-Romania relations.
Galaţi’s relationship with the United States dates back further than many may realize, several decades before the United States and Romania formally established diplomatic relations in 1880.
Indeed, in 1840, Anton Negroponte became the first U.S. representative to what eventually became modern Romania. He was commissioned as an honorary American vice-consul when the United States opened a consulate in Galati.
In 1849, Romanian-American, Henry Romertze, became the first full U.S. Consul assigned to Galati. Prince Cuza accepted his credentials and encouraged him to expand U.S. trade and investment in the region.
Then, as today, Galaţi was a key hub for trade, a gateway to the world. This early diplomatic presence by the United States in Galati reflects the economic and strategic importance of this area at the time.
In the nearly two centuries since then, Galaţi has continued to play a critical role in Romania’s economic development, as well as in its relations with the United States.
As we deepen our bilateral ties and work together to promote economic growth, the United States continues to invest in Romania.
Cities like Galaţi are a key part of our common effort to build prosperity. U.S. companies, entrepreneurs, and cultural institutions are eager to engage with Romanian partners, just as they did in the 19th century.
That said, our relationship is about more than just economic cooperation. It is also about the values and connections we share across the many realms, including culture, education and, especially in the current context, cooperation in security.
Our collaboration is rooted in a mutual commitment to advancing the shared interests and values that bind our nations together – liberty, democracy and rule of law.
Through this enduring partnership, we aim to build a future that reflects the aspirations and ideals of our peoples.
Today, our shared dedication to democratic principles is more important than ever.
As strategic partners, and as NATO allies, we stand together in the face of Russia’s unprovoked and illegal aggression to support Ukraine and strengthen collective deterrence and defense within the Alliance.
Meanwhile, in the face of unimaginable hardship endured by our neighbors in Ukraine, Romania has shown the world the true meaning of solidarity.
The outpouring of support and empathy from the people of Galați in support of your neighbors has been nothing short of extraordinary.
We have been moved by the way in which the people and government of Romania rushed to the border when the war began to assist those in need, offering ceai and cozonac, along with material support.
Your actions have made a difference in the lives of countless Ukrainian families. Thank you for showing the world that in times of crisis, Romania stands united, ready to help those in need.
Please be assured you will always have a partner in the United States. We are honored to stand with you.
As we celebrate this exhibit’s opening here in Galaţi, I am reminded of the importance of continuing to foster these connections—whether through art, diplomacy, or economic partnerships.
The United States remains steadfast in its commitment to strengthening its relationship with Romania, particularly with communities like Galaţi that have been so integral to our shared history.
So, as you explore the images in the exhibit, I hope you will be inspired not only by the stories they tell, but also by the values they represent.
„We the People” is more than a phrase; it is a call to action, a reminder that we all have a role to play in shaping the future of our societies.
It is my hope that, together, we will continue to build on the legacy of friendship and cooperation in which Galaţi has played such a vital role.
Thank you and enjoy the exhibit.
Contributor: U.S. Embassy-Bucharest
Sursa foto : U.S. Embassy-Bucharest
