MAE: 24 January - one of the most important accomplishments of modern Romania

January 24th marks one of the most important accomplishments of modern Romania, which allowed an accelerated development of the country on the path of development and modernisation, a release of the Foreign Affairs Ministry (MAE) sent to AGERPRES on Thursday informs.

"The Union of the Romanian Principalities, the first moment of Romanians' affirmation as a nation and its connection to 'the European spirit', as well as the first step for the achievement of the Romanian unitary national state was the result of the efforts and sacrifices of generations of politicians and scholars who included, ever since the programmes of the Forty-Eighters, the ideal of the Union of Moldavia and of Wallachia. The Union of 1859 signifies an act of high political will and national solidarity which represents an inducement to the present and future generations to preserve and cultivate a consciousness of national unity, and to develop a visionary action of the elites," the MAE release says.

The Romanian diplomacy regards with respect and gratitude the makers of the Union of 1859, those who have acted for its international recognition, for the acquisition of state independence, as well as for the following processes of making the modern Romanian state.

Thanks to them, the MAE release shows, today, Romania is recognised for its attachment to the principles of international law and for the promotion of mutual respect, good understanding, openness to dialogue, values of multiculturalism that underpin its international profile and its external action.

"The sustained path of the Romanian nation towards achieving independence and accomplishing the modern Romanian unitary state has served as a model for the political action to this day, which allowed Romania to acquire its present, consistent and credible status within the European Union and NATO. Today, the message of the Romanian Principalities Union is found in the national wish to belong to the European community and North Atlantic space. On this day with great significance for all Romanians, let us celebrate together the Union of 1859 and reflect on the founding principles of modern Romania, unity, solidarity, dignity and social cohesion. 'Happy birthday, Romania! Many happy returns Romanians!,'" the MAE release informs.

January 24 was declared a national holiday through Law No. 171/2014.