Romanian Language Day will be celebrated in Ukraine every year on 31 August. A decree to this effect has been signed by the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This decision is seen as one of the steps towards developing humanitarian and cultural cooperation between Ukraine and Romania.

The Head of State announced the introduction of the new date during a joint press conference in Bucharest with Romanian President Nicușor Dan. According to Volodymyr Zelenskyy, this move is intended to strengthen mutual respect between the two nations and promote the further development of educational and cultural dialogue.

The date of 31 August was not chosen at random — it is on this day that Romanian Language Day is celebrated in many European countries. In this way, Ukraine is joining the European tradition of honouring linguistic and cultural heritage.

The President of Ukraine also highlighted the principle of reciprocity in cultural policy between nations. Romania already celebrates Ukrainian Language Day on 9 November, which is a sign of support for the Ukrainian community in that country. In this context, during the meeting, the parties also discussed educational issues relating to the Romanian community in Ukraine and the Ukrainian community in Romania.

“Romania already has a Ukrainian Language Day – 9 November. We have discussed educational issues both within our teams and today with the President – for the Romanian community in Ukraine and for our Ukrainian community in Romania. We are ready to continue working on these issues in a fair and balanced manner,” emphasised Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Romanian President Nicușor Dan, for his part, emphasised the importance of open dialogue regarding the Romanian minority in Ukraine and welcomed the Ukrainian side’s openness to cooperation.

The introduction of Romanian Language Day in Ukraine can be seen as part of a broader process of strengthening Ukrainian-Romanian relations, supporting national minorities and fostering cultural dialogue. For educational institutions, cultural organisations and Romanian-speaking communities, this date could provide a further opportunity to promote the language and cultural heritage, and to develop academic cooperation between the two countries.