India-Romania Joint Issue

India-Romania Joint Commemorative Stamp – Celebrating 75 Years of Diplomatic Relations

In 2023, India and Romania proudly celebrated 75 years of diplomatic relations. To mark this historic milestone, the Department of Posts issued a joint commemorative postage stamp, showcasing the strong political, economic, and cultural ties shared by the two nations.

A Strong Diplomatic Partnership

Diplomatic relations between India and Romania were established in 1948 and upgraded to the ambassadorial level in 1968. Over the decades, the partnership has grown steadily, with both nations supporting each other in multilateral forums, including the United Nations, and participating in frequent bilateral visits to strengthen political and economic ties.

The economic relationship has expanded significantly, with trade volumes growing steadily in 2023-24. Cooperation agreements across sectors such as tourism, defense, and diplomatic visa facilitation have further deepened mutual engagement. Romania’s active participation in global initiatives, including the International Solar Alliance, underscores a shared commitment to sustainable development.

Cultural and Educational Collaboration

Cultural cooperation forms a cornerstone of the India-Romania relationship. A Cultural Agreement signed in 1957 paved the way for exchanges in arts, science, and education, continuing with the 2022–2027 Cultural Exchange Programme.

• ICCR-sponsored dance troupes regularly perform in Romania, showcasing India’s rich heritage.
• Events like the “Namaste India” festival and International Day of Yoga have become annual cultural highlights.
• Academic centers such as the Cluj Centre for India Studies and the Romania-India Study Center at Romanian-American University promote deeper cultural and educational engagement.

In August 2023, an ICCR troupe performed at the International Folklore Festival in Targu Jiu, presenting workshops and performances that celebrated folk traditions and artistry. Folk costumes, often described as cultural “identity cards,” represent the heritage and values of rural communities in both nations.

Design of the Joint Commemorative Stamp

The India-Romania Joint Commemorative Stamp beautifully captures traditional folk attire from both countries:

• Romania: The stamp depicts costumes from Bihor County, featuring vibrant embroidery in red, green, and black on a white shirt. Women wear a long sheepskin coat and a black kerchief with red floral motifs, while men don a simple black hat.
• India: The stamp illustrates the Lehenga-Choli for women, a pleated skirt with blouse worn during festivals, and the Dhoti-Kurta for men, reflecting India’s rich traditional heritage.

This exquisite design celebrates the shared history, cultural richness, and enduring friendship between India and Romania. The stamp stands as a symbol of collaboration, honoring the nations’ past achievements and envisioning continued growth in diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange.