The 11th edition of the European Performing Arts Festival - Meeting of Romanian National Theatres has opened in Chisinau, with Romania's interim Culture Minister Demeter Andras Istvan highlighting the importance of ensuring the event's continuity.

'I have been coming to Chisinau with some regularity since 2010,' the minister said. 'And one thing is certain. Every time, I have had the same role. That of an emissary of continuity. Of national communion: of language, traditions and customs. Of cultural unity and of our common path towards a European future. And the results of these dialogues can be seen, heard and felt. Every day, through the voice of Radio Chisinau, through the images of TVR Moldova, through cooperation between creative and performing artists, through cultural exchanges and through every milestone on the roadmap that is passed, day by day, by our two societies. They can also be seen in the unforgettable moments of the 10 editions of this Meeting of Romanian National Theatres,' Demeter said, according to a statement posted on the Culture Ministry's Facebook page on Wednesday.

He expressed satisfaction that his term as minister had given him the opportunity to contribute to the continuity of the European Performing Arts Festival, including the organisation of two consecutive editions.

'And I conclude with the conviction that, regardless of my administrative or political capacity, my role on this path will not end when I hand over the ministerial baton,' Demeter Andras Istvan added.

According to the statement, Moldova's Culture Minister Dan Suruceanu said that 'the festival is not merely an isolated cultural project, but clear evidence of integration and an investment in our common European future,' adding that Chisinau 'during this period becomes a privileged space where different generations, innovative ideas and great theatrical traditions come together.'

Ada Hausvater, manager of the I.L. Caragiale National Theatre in Bucharest, and Petru Hadarca, director of the Mihai Eminescu National Theatre in Chisinau and director of the festival, also spoke at the opening.

The two ministers subsequently held a bilateral meeting to discuss future cooperation between their ministries, theatres and artists, as well as other activities involving museums, archaeology, music and books.

In this area, Romania continues to support the Republic of Moldova, including in connection with participation in the Frankfurt Book Fair in 2028, when Romania will be Guest of Honour, the Culture Ministry said. AGERPRES (RO - writing by: Daniel Popescu; EN - writing by: Simona Iacob)

Display count: 284