Embassy of India
Bucharest
Press Release
Subject: Ambassador’s Engagements in Craiova and Slatina Strengthen India–Romania Regional, Academic, and Economic Cooperation
Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra, Ambassador of India to Romania, undertook a series of engagements in Craiova and Slatina aimed at further strengthening India–Romania cooperation across regional governance, academic partnerships, and economic collaboration, while also highlighting the growing contributions of Indian companies and citizens to Romanian society.
During his visit to Craiova, the Ambassador held detailed and constructive discussions with H.E. Ms. Lia Olguța Vasilescu, Mayor of Craiova; H.E. Mr. Emil Moț, President of the Dolj County Council; and H.E. Mr. Daniel Dăianu, Prefect of Dolj. The meeting focused on enhancing local-level partnerships, expanding trade and investment opportunities, and fostering closer institutional cooperation between India and Romania. Both sides emphasized the importance of regional engagement as a key pillar in advancing bilateral relations and explored opportunities for collaboration in sectors such as industry, infrastructure, education, and innovation.
On this occasion, the Ambassador expressed sincere appreciation for the recognition accorded to Mr. Vipan Kumar, an Indian national whose extraordinary courage saved the life of a 5-year-old girl who had fallen into a frozen lake in Craiova. Demonstrating exceptional presence of mind and bravery, Mr. Kumar immediately responded to the emergency and entered the freezing waters to rescue the child, despite the risks to his own life. His selfless act has been widely acknowledged across Romania and stands as a powerful reflection of shared human values, compassion, and solidarity that underpin the India–Romania relationship.
The Ambassador also met with Prof. Dr. Ion Popescu, Rector of the University of Craiova, to discuss avenues for strengthening academic cooperation between India and Romania. The discussions covered a wide range of areas, including student and faculty exchange programmes, joint research initiatives, institutional partnerships, and collaboration in emerging fields of science and technology. Both sides underlined the growing importance of educational linkages in building long-term partnerships and fostering knowledge exchange between the two countries.
The Ambassador joined the Rector for the opening ceremony welcoming students from KIIT and KISS University (India) who have commenced their academic journey at the University of Craiova under the Erasmus Programme. The ceremony highlighted the significance of international academic mobility, cross-cultural engagement, and collaboration between Indian and Romanian institutions. The Ambassador expressed appreciation to the University for hosting the Indian students and noted that such initiatives play a vital role in nurturing globally aware, skilled, and innovative future leaders.
In Slatina, the Ambassador met with H.E. Mr. Mario De Mezzo, Mayor of Slatina, to discuss strengthening local cooperation and exploring opportunities to enhance India–Romania economic and investment partnerships. The discussions focused on promoting business linkages, encouraging Indian companies to explore opportunities in the region, and enhancing cooperation at the municipal level. The Ambassador also extended an invitation for a business delegation led by the Mayor to visit India, with a view to further strengthening trade, economic, and commercial ties between the two countries.
The Ambassador also met with H.E. Mr. Cătălin Ionuț Ivan, Vice President of the Olt County Council, to discuss strengthening regional cooperation and expanding economic and investment partnerships. The Vice President welcomed the growing presence of Indian companies in the region, including the investment by Vectr Holding in Olt County’s agricultural sector. The company has undertaken significant agricultural operations, including large-scale harvesting activities, contributing to increased productivity, job creation, and the introduction of modern farming practices. These developments reflect the positive impact of Indian investments and signal growing confidence in Romania as a destination for Indian businesses.
The visit underscored India’s continued commitment to strengthening its partnership with Romania through active engagement with regional authorities, academic institutions, and local communities. It also highlighted the expanding scope for collaboration in education, investment, and people-to-people exchanges, further reinforcing the strong and dynamic relationship between the two countries.
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Bucharest
6 April 2026
