Freedom, democracy, the rule of law, safeguarding societies and keeping their citizens protected and always secure – all these often seem to be granted by default, especially during the long period of peace our continent has had, President Klaus Iohannis said on Thursday in the Heroes’ Day message delivered by presidential advisor Ion Oprisor during the ceremony held at the Monument to the Unknown Soldier in Bucharest’s Carol I Park.

„Unfortunately, recent realities prove to us that jeopardies to our region’s security we no longer though possible can appear at any time. Today, we are witnessing major challenges as Europe is facing the brutal, unprovoked and unjust war of aggression initiated by Russia against Ukraine,” said the head of the state.

He went on to note that this conflict not only affects the sovereignty and interests of the Ukrainian people, but risks to deeply destabilize the rules-based international order.

According to the president, Heroes’ Day carries a deep significance and is a reminder that „the sacrifice of the nation’s heroes for the achievement of national interests was not in vain.”

„We all have the duty to honor with utmost respect those who made the ultimate sacrifice so that we can live in freedom and democracy today. Also, we show our gratitude to the heroes who survived the horrors of the Second World War, to the opponents to the communist dictatorship, and to those who fought for freedom during the December 1989 Revolution, contributing decisively to the toppling of the totalitarian regime in Romania,” he emphasized.

The president also expressed his appreciation for those who are currently serving in Romania’s defense system.

AGERPRES