French Ambassador: Participation of Romanian soldiers in Champs Elysees parade, a symbol of our friendship

France's Ambassador to Romania, Francois Saint-Paul has stated on Monday that the participation of Romanian soldiers in the parade on the Champs Elysees in Paris on the occasion of France's National Day represents a symbol of Romanian-French friendship.

"At the time I am speaking to you, Romanian soldiers have already participated in the traditional parade on the Champs Elysees in Paris. Behold another symbol of our friendship", said the French diplomat during a speech held at the function organized by the French Embassy on the occasion of the National Day of the French Republic.

He showed that Romania and France have a long common history, adding, however, that the common future inside the European Union is what brings together the two states.

"This future is built, of course, on economy as well. But, as our past, our future is built on culture, on bilateral trades, on exchange of ideas, on projects, on everything we want to build together. Every day since my arrival in Romania I am aware of the trust that is granted unto us. This reception involves debts, friendship, esteem and respect", said Saint-Paul.

The function was attended by Prime Minister Victor Ponta, Chairman of the Senate Calin Popescu Tariceanu, former Presidents Ion Iliescu and Emil Constantinescu, National Liberal Party chairman Klaus Iohannis, Foreign Intelligence Service Director Teodor Melescanu, Romanian Intelligence Service Director George Maior, members of the Cabinet, ambassadors, General Prosecutor Tiberiu Nitu, Chairman of the High Court Livia Stanciu, Ombudsman Victor Ciorbea, Member of the Romanian Academy Eugen Simion, and Bucharest General Mayor Sorin Oprescu. AGERPRES