The Republic of Moldova marks National Culture Day on Thursday, together with Romania, on the anniversary of the birth of the national poet of all Romanians, Mihai Eminescu. In Chisinau, events began with a flower-laying ceremony at the Eminescu memorial on the Alley of Classics, followed by speeches from senior officials, Moldpres reports.
Moldovan Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu stressed that the day offers an opportunity "to discuss the importance of cultural heritage, to promote the cultural personalities of our country and to ensure that the values that unite us are passed down to our children." He added that culture had served as "a shield against authoritarianism and attempts to destroy our freedom and national identity", and invited the citizens to participate in cultural events and discover the national cultural heritage.
Culture Minister Cristian Jardan praised cultural workers, noting the contribution of more than 17,000 people employed in the sector. He laid flowers at Eminescu's bust, stressing that the date "unites the two banks of the Prut River, with culture celebrated both in Moldova and Romania."
"On this piece of land we have the joy and privilege of enriching our culture with that of the Ukrainian, Gagauz, Bulgarian and Jewish ethnic groups. We have a rich culture that we must cherish, love, preserve and develop, because it defines us and promotes us in the world," the Moldovan minister said.
In his turn, Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu issued a congratulatory message on the occasion of the National Culture Day, emphasizing the essential role of artists, writers, musicians and filmmakers in preserving traditions and strengthening national identity.
January 15 is observed in both Romania and Moldova as a celebration of cultural values and heritage. Romania established National Culture Day in 2011, choosing the date to coincide with Mihai Eminescu's birth (1850 - 1889).
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