Corina Crețu, former European Commissioner and Member of the European Parliament, paid public tribute to former Romanian President Ion Iliescu on social media, describing him as an emblematic figure of Romanian politics. As his former presidential adviser, Crețu recalled a professional and trusting relationship with the man who led Romania through its post-communist transition.
“Now, as the destiny of former Romanian President Ion Iliescu has come to an end, my thoughts go, with great sadness, to his family and to those with whom I shared essential moments of post-December history. May God rest him in peace!” — posted Corina Crețu on her official page, identifying herself as “former presidential adviser to Ion Iliescu.”
A Career Tied to Iliescu
Corina Crețu began her public career as a journalist, quickly recognized for her communication skills and professional integrity.
In 1992, she was appointed expert in the spokesperson’s office of the Presidential Administration.
She later became presidential adviser and spokesperson for Ion Iliescu during both his 1992–1996 and 2000–2004 terms.
After Iliescu’s presidency ended in 2004, Crețu continued her political rise:
Elected PSD Deputy in 2000, resigning to remain close to Iliescu.
Senator from 2004 to 2007, member of the foreign policy committee and OSCE delegation.
Member of the European Parliament from 2007, part of Romania’s first EU delegation.
In 2014, appointed European Commissioner for Regional Development (2014–2019), managing over €12 billion in projects for Romania and collaborating with Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker.
Later nominated as Consul General in Thessaloniki.
Held key roles in Romanian and European institutions before announcing her retirement from politics in 2024.
From Cotroceni to Brussels: Crețu’s Political Journey
Crețu’s message carries special weight in the context of Iliescu’s final chapter. Her respectful and composed tone reflects gratitude for a time when, in her official role, she promoted the image of the presidency and the Romanian state.
Ion Iliescu was a central figure in post-revolutionary Romanian politics. His presidency was marked by two pivotal moments: the establishment of democracy after 1989 and Romania’s integration into NATO and the EU. However, the brutal suppression of protests in University Square (the June 1990 Mineriads) remains one of the most controversial episodes of his leadership.
As Iliescu’s spokesperson and adviser, Corina Crețu was the official voice attempting to mediate institutional communication between the Cotroceni Palace and the public.
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