All Photos by Hana Ramadan / The Peninsula
Doha, Qatar: The Embassy of Romania in Qatar organised “Flavours from Romania”, a cultural evening at Katara Cultural Village celebrating Romanian traditions through its cuisine, heritage and craftsmanship.
The event was attended by the Ambassador of Romania to Qatar, HE Daniel Tanase, General Manager of Katara Cultural Village Foundation Dr. Khalid Ibrahim Al-Sulaiti, members of the diplomatic corps and representatives of the Romanian community.
Speaking at the event, Romania’s Ambassador to Qatar, HE Daniel Tanase, highlighted two of the country’s most cherished cultural symbols, including a traditional dessert "Cozonac" and the IA Romanian blouse, describing them as reflections of Romania’s history, creativity and enduring cultural identity.
The ambassador said 'cozonac' represents far more than a festive dessert, symbolising family, hospitality, generosity and togetherness. Guests were introduced to the traditional sweet bread, prepared from enriched yeast dough and filled with walnuts, cocoa and raisins, as well as "pască", a traditional pastry made from the same dough and distinguished by its creamy cheese filling.
The ambassador also highlighted the significance of the Romanian blouse, known as the IA, describing it as a living testament to the creativity and craftsmanship of generations of Romanian women. Each embroidered motif reflects stories, symbols and traditions passed down through generations, connecting Romania’s cultural heritage with the present.
The ambassador noted that in 2022, the art of the traditional blouse with shoulder embroidery, known as "Altița", shared by Romania and the Republic of Moldova, was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Celebrated annually on June 24, the Romanian blouse remains a symbol of national pride and cultural identity for Romanians around the world.
Emphasising the role of cultural diplomacy, Ambassador Tănase said traditions, art and gastronomy provide opportunities to strengthen dialogue, promote mutual understanding and build lasting connections between nations.
Guests enjoyed tastings of traditional Romanian Cozonac and Pască while exploring folk costumes from different regions of Romania, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage.
The event reflected the importance of cultural diplomacy in fostering mutual understanding and connections, while highlighting the growing cultural relations and longstanding friendship between Romania and the State of Qatar.
