Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Canadians of Romanian descent on the 96th anniversary of the national day of Romania. In December 1989, many Romanians had the courage to fight for freedom, and more than 1,000 of them paid with their lives. Their sacrifice made today's Romania possible. Romania is now in the European Union and is a NATO member with an unwavering commitment to democracy, respect for human rights, and the rule of law.
This year the anniversary has a particular significance, since it marks 95 years of diplomatic relations between Canada and Romania, 25 years from the fall of Communism, and 10 years since Romania's membership in NATO. Romania was able not only to strengthen its security but also to contribute to a co-operative endeavour aiming to secure the entire Euro-Atlantic region in a challenging security landscape.
I invite all hon. members to join me in congratulating Romania for 96 years of national unity and 25 years of democracy and progress. God bless Canada and Romania.