Ambassador Dan Stoenescu addressed community leaders and international representatives at the "Romanian Diaspora - Roots and Horizons" conference in Iași, Romania, on August 12, 2026.

Stoenescu emphasized the pivotal role of diplomacy in preserving national language, cultural identity, and economic partnerships across international borders. The two-day gathering forms a central pillar of the city’s annual "Diaspora Celebration - Iasi is HOME!" program.

Connecting Global Communities Through Technology and Trade

Organized by the Iasi City Hall, the conference launched its opening sessions on Wednesday with a strong focus on cross-border collaboration. Industry leaders and diplomats gathered to discuss concrete mechanisms for uniting overseas Romanians with their homeland through

entrepreneurship, technological innovation, and direct investments.

Key discussions centered on improving communication channels between citizens living domestically and those established abroad to build stronger economic ties.

• Entrepreneurship: Creating streamlined avenues for overseas business investments in local Romanian markets.

• Technology: Utilizing digital platforms to enhance civic engagement and cross-border networking.

• Cultural Diplomacy: Leveraging international expatriate networks to elevate Romania's global standing.

Preserving Heritage and Educational Support Across Borders

The conference continued into Thursday with an emphasis on soft power, academic exchanges, and heritage preservation. Panelists explored educational strategies designed to support youth in the diaspora while keeping them connected to their native language and traditional culture.

Reaffirming the strategic value of citizens living abroad, Ambassador Stoenescu reinforced the government's commitment to supporting its global community. "The diaspora is an essential part of Romania," Stoenescu noted. "Wherever we are, Romania stays at home."