Originally published By DefenseRomania Team on
July 5, 2026
Former U.S. Ambassador to Romania Adrian Zuckerman (2019–2021), Chairman of the Board of the Romanian-American Alliance, delivered a solemn address marking the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence, highlighting the strategic partnership and shared democratic values that unite the two nations.
The Alliance organized the special event, "250 Years of the Independence of the United States of America." The celebration commemorated a major historical milestone—the two-and-a-half centuries since the Founding Fathers laid the foundation of a nation guided by the inalienable ideals of liberty, equality, and self-government.
The event was organized by the Alliance's leadership, including H.E. Adrian Zuckerman, Major General (Ret.) Cătălin Mihalache, Marius Bostan (RePatriot), Senator Claudiu Catană, and the entire Alliance team.
The reception, held at Grădina Snagov, brought together prominent figures from the business community, civil society, the media, ambassadors from partner countries accredited to Romania, and political leaders. President Nicușor Dan opened the reception with remarks emphasizing the importance of strengthening the Romanian-American relationship.
DefenseRomania also attended the reception organized by the Alliance.
A Promise Tested by Time and a Renewed Commitment
In his remarks, H.E. Adrian Zuckerman emphasized that the text of the Declaration of Independence of July 4, 1776, represented far more than words written on parchment—it was a promise tested across generations and strengthened through times of crisis.
"Today, we do more than reflect on history—we reaffirm our commitment to the future. We celebrate the progress we have made, the resilience that has defined this nation, and the countless individuals who have shaped its history," the American diplomat said, while also recalling the Declaration's enduring affirmation of the universal rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
The Chairman of the Alliance also warned that the effort to build "a more perfect Union" remains an ongoing responsibility for every generation, one that requires preserving opportunity and justice for the future.
Romania and the United States: An Unwavering Partnership Against Tyranny
A central theme of the speech was the deep connection between Romania's democratic journey and America's founding principles. Adrian Zuckerman praised the courage and determination of the Romanian people, noting that Romania's path toward freedom and respect for individual rights demonstrates the universal nature of these values.
"By choosing this path, Romania stands alongside the United States in affirming that these values are universal, enduring, and worth defending. Together, our nations demonstrate that freedom, once won, is strengthened through partnership, common purpose, and a shared belief in human dignity," Zuckerman emphasized.
Against the backdrop of today's global challenges to democratic values, the former ambassador delivered a firm message of unity and resolve on behalf of the United States, Romania, and their transatlantic allies:
"In a world where forces opposed to freedom continue to challenge democratic values, the United States, Romania, and our allies must remain steadfast. We reaffirm our commitment to resisting tyranny, upholding the rule of law, and protecting the fundamental rights of our citizens."
In his address, H.E. Adrian Zuckerman also quoted two of the most influential presidents in American history. He recalled Ronald Reagan's warning that "freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction," as well as John F. Kennedy's enduring call to service: "Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country."
