Romania has made outstanding progress in the fight against corruption and in establishing independent institutions, said the US Charge D’Affaires Duane Butcher on Thursday, July 3, at the US Embassy’s reception celebrating 4th of July.  He will leave his position and be replaced with Dean Thompson, who has already arrived to Romania.

“We want to help Romania continue with this progress,” said Butcher. He reminded of the billions of dollars invested by the US in Romania, which led to the creation of thousands of jobs. Once the new transatlantic agreement between the US and the EU, trade between Romania and the US will be even easier, he said.

“Above all, the United States wants Romania to succeed. We want Romania to thrive, for its economy to flourish, and for trade and investment to grow,” Butcher added.

"Romania has incredible physical beauty of course. But again, what makes a country truly beautiful is its people and its values. I have been privileged to work with many extraordinary Romanians, among them dedicated soldiers and talented public servants, fearless police, prosecutors and judges, courageous journalists, and untiring social activists fighting for justice, seeking the truth, and promoting positive change. Together with Romania’s exceptionally talented youth, they are building a vibrant society and a prosperous democracy," the US official also said.

Butcher also reminded of Romania's beauties. "Those of us fortunate enough to live and work in Romania have come to appreciate its striking beauty, from the golden beaches of the Black Sea (from which I’ve just returned), to the inspiring peaks of the Carpathians (where my sons learned to ski), to the pristine natural beauty of the Danube Delta, to the historic villages of Transylvania, and the renowned painted monasteries of Bucovina," he concluded.

editor@romania-insider.com