Month: November 2025

Viorica Dăncilă, former Prime Minister of Romania, has been appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of the Romanian–Chinese House. She has also been named, by the Chinese side, Vice President of the China–Europe Economic Cooperation and Development Commission, during an official event held on September 23 in Nanjing.

Dăncilă stated that she accepted “without hesitation” the invitation to lead the institution. The proposal came following her visit to China earlier in September.

“I have taken on the position of President and CEO of the Romanian–Chinese House. After my return from China—where I was appointed Vice President of the China–Europe Economic Cooperation and Development Commission—I had a discussion with the Secretary General of the House, Mr. Dumitru Nicolae, who invited me to take on this role given my long-standing relationship with China and my active involvement in developing economic ties between Romania and China.

I said yes, without hesitation. I truly believe that relations with China can bring development to Romania. I have seen that almost all countries in Central and Eastern Europe are seeking to strengthen their ties with China, and I hope that Romania will also understand that, in these challenging times, relations with China are extremely important—especially considering the friendship that unites our two nations,” said the former Prime Minister.

Under Mrs. Dăncilă’s leadership, the Romanian–Chinese House is set to enter a new phase of development. Her vision includes expanding the organization’s presence nationwide.

“My main goals are to further strengthen this non-governmental organization, to open branches in most Romanian counties, and to foster close cooperation with China in cultural, artistic, and economic fields, as well as in all other areas of mutual interest.

The Romanian–Chinese House is a member of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, which allows us to maintain permanent communication with China. We will organize joint events, collaborate closely with the Embassy of China in Bucharest, and, of course, engage with many stakeholders in Romania.

In the coming period, I plan to travel across the country to meet with our branch presidents and to visit sites of Chinese investment in Romania—some of them together with the Chinese Ambassador—to highlight the positive impact of these projects and to encourage new Chinese business initiatives in Romania.”

One of the first events Mrs. Dăncilă attended as President of the Romanian–Chinese House was the Fusion Multi-Culture Gala, organized by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Bucharest. It was also her first public appearance alongside the new Ambassador of China to Romania, H.E. Mr. Chen Feng.

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“Chinese Investments in Romania Are Vital”

In Dăncilă’s view, Chinese investments are “vital” for Romania, especially in the current economic climate—provided they comply with European Union and NATO regulations.

“Chinese investments in Romania are vital. We are living through a time when many investors are leaving, predictability is lacking, and the private sector is not being supported as it should be. I believe Chinese investments can play an important role—not only by contributing to the state budget, but also by driving regional and community development and by reducing unemployment, which continues to rise.”

Dăncilă also pointed out certain “obstacles” that may discourage Chinese investors and announced her intention to discuss these issues with Romanian officials—particularly concerning the long waiting times for business or tourist visas.

“Just as in other EU member states, visas should be issued in a short period of time. It is neither fair nor beneficial for Romania that the process here takes so long. This alone can discourage Chinese investment from the outset.”

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“I Was Proud of the Way Beijing Relates to Romania”

Dăncilă also recalled her recent presence in China, where she attended the military parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of China’s victory over Japan and fascism in World War II.

“I am very proud of this invitation—it was truly an honor. When the President of one of the world’s major powers invites you to walk the red carpet and attend such an important national event, it is an extraordinary gesture of respect.

I know there were differing opinions about my presence, but invitations are extended by the host, not by the guests. I was there at the invitation of President Xi Jinping and in honor of the Chinese people.

During the official dinner offered by President Xi Jinping, I had the opportunity to hold discussions with senior Chinese officials. I was deeply proud of how they perceive Romania. Even though they are aware of some of the statements made back home, they continue to regard Romanians as a friendly people and remain committed to strengthening our bilateral relations,” Dăncilă concluded.