I am glad to accept the invitation to participate in the venerable anniversary of the Statistics Institute, together with the specialists who give life to the data that we, economists, political decision-makers, businessmen, analysts, use every day.
Although these figures may seem cold or abstract in relation to the realities they reflect, behind the INS data there are authentic people and life stories, which deserve all the appreciation.
Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to directly observe the profound impact that truthful statistics have in substantiating public policy decisions. Statistics are not just a sum of numbers; It is the objective mirror of our reality, an indispensable guide for effective public policies and sound forecasts.
On the occasion of the anniversary event, I conveyed the message of the President of Romania to the National Institute of Statistics and to the community of statistical specialists in Romania, being honored to hand over, on behalf of the President of Romania, the decoration conferred on the National Institute of Statistics, emphasizing the recognition of the remarkable contributions of the Institute and reaffirming the support, also from the Presidential Administration, for this essential field.
The 165th anniversary of statistics in Romania represents an important moment in the development of this field, an essential one for the knowledge of the country’s economic and social developments. In this regard, I appreciate the fundamental role that the National Institute of Statistics has in providing certain and relevant data.
Through judicious statistics, the INS has demonstrated a consistent commitment to rigor and excellence. I congratulate the National Institute of Statistics for its consistent contribution to the correct information of our society.
Ladies and gentlemen,
The vision for Romania’s development must be focused on economic competitiveness, technological innovation and social inclusion. Through statistical data, we have the opportunity to identify opportunities and anticipate changes. Our ability to adapt to data and information is essential to benefit from progress and predictability.
In the coming decades, Romania has the potential to become a regional vector of technology and innovation, and investments in education, research and development are fundamental in achieving this goal, which will provide us with substantial competitive advantages.
Statistics play a central role in this process, providing essential data to assess labour market needs, develop educational programmes and stimulate entrepreneurial initiatives.
At the same time, we must focus on reducing development disparities and inequalities of opportunities in society. Statistics show us where the biggest challenges are and support the design of specific programs for a fair and inclusive society.
Dear guests,
Today, the main challenge in modern society is no longer access to data and information, but the way they are used in communication and decision-making.
Official statistics are not just a passive enumeration of figures – they reflect the social, economic and political reality in which we all live. Without researching and interpreting this data, public policies or business strategies would be guided by discretionary, unsubstantiated interpretations. That is why statistics have proven to be an effective tool in combating disinformation and manipulation of public opinion.
The economic evolution is accurately illustrated by statistical indicators, which are the result of laborious work of data collection and aggregation. The assumption of these indicators transcends political ideologies or electoral cycles, providing an indispensable basis for informed assessments and decisions.
For example, INS data show that, in the last two decades, the economic performance of our country has been remarkable. Romania recorded an average annual growth of real GDP of 3.8%, almost triple the European average. Also, according to statistical estimates, Romania’s economic convergence advances significantly towards the level of 80% of the Union average by the end of 2024.
Ladies and gentlemen,
The national approaches with far-reaching results are those based on truthful statistical data. That is why we must pay special attention to the training of future generations of economic analysts. It is crucial to invest in the training of young specialists and in the development of research infrastructure, in order to strengthen the role of the national statistical system in creating science-based public policies.
Thus, I encourage the promotion of economic and financial education for a better understanding of the market economy and the impact of public policies on the business environment. The knowledge imparted in business schools and universities of economics must be relevant and adapted to changes in society.
The celebration of 165 years of official statistics in Romania is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to align with the standards of excellence and rigor imposed by the role of official statistics.
Significant contributions to Romania’s economic and social development had, for example, the statistical researches occasioned by the conduct of agricultural and population censuses.
The contribution of statistics is undeniable: every decision based on public policy or every business strategy is based on the work of statisticians. Of particular relevance are the attributions of the National Commission for Strategy and Prognosis, an essential body in providing economic forecasts, which bases its activity on the data provided by the National Institute of Statistics.
Dear guests,
In order to remain an example of good practices in this field, the work of the NSI must be further supported and promoted. As such, for the special merits in his field of activity, we decided to decorate the National Institute of Statistics with the Order of Cultural Merit, Category H – “Scientific Research”, in the rank of Commander. It is a distinction that reflects both the recognition of the performance of statistical specialists, but also the urge to accelerate the current direction of modernization of the NSI.
I congratulate you once again on your outstanding achievements to date and your continued dedication.”
Romania’s birth rate falls to the lowest in more than half a century, statistics show
