Cannot leave or let go. From oppression to opportunity

In the summer of 1998 Romania was a fringe emerging market severely lacking in basic infrastructure. The spirit of the country remained fractured from a legacy of oppression and isolation. For a long time Romania was somehow insecure of its place in the world.

By George Leslie

From that time onward I have witnessed the rebuilding of social, political, economic systems through broad donor funding, private sector investment and the inspiration and monumental efforts of people who have sought the rewards of achievement offered by free market socio-economic systems and a little “oil of the elbow.”

There have been poignant moments which I thought marked a re-awakening of Romania’s national pride and spirit of self-determination. When Romania’s football team beat England in 2000 hundreds of thousands filled the streets with highly jubilant but peaceful celebration.

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When, after years of general public apathy and resignation toward political leaders, Basescu was brought to power by strongly held public opinion that this was a leader who represented the common man, in some respects, perhaps also a statement against the legacy of previous government leadership.

The legacy of commercial skullduggery and treachery which pervades much of Romania’s socio-economic-political system has been one of the country’s greatest challenges. Tremendous progress has been made.

However, the tyranny of graft should not overshadow the great achievements; notably, the immense reforms, joining NATO, EU accession, and so on.

I believe there are some notable individuals who may be associated with profound levels of corruption at high levels of government and industry who have also made major contributions to the advancement of this country.

The greatest recognition, however, should go to those individuals who did not seek the easy way. Who fought stubbornly for progress, growth and achievements on honorable terms. Who can be held as examples to future generations of leaders.

In particular, the Central Bank has been a bastion of strength, independence and credibility.

Of course, Romania’s greatest strength is its people and its distinctive cultural diversity. Among the many countries where I’ve lived/worked I have not felt more alive, or loved by the people around me, than in Romania. It is a country that has grown very close to my heart.

I know many of my contemporaries, the cohort of foreigners who have lived in Romania during the same period, whether they admit it or not feel the same.

Romania has an easy way of absorbing people into its Latin rhythm of life. Before you know it you cannot leave or let go. The world has little idea of its enchantments or its immense potential. I believe a great future lies ahead for Romania.

I shall remember the individuals who fought terrific battles for commercial survival. Although, a number have fallen, many have transcended massive barriers, changed in the process and likewise brought great change to their environments.

What a profound experience it has been to witness such transformations in Bucharest, the country at large, in friends and colleagues, in everything that shares a stake in the past, present and future of this country; all so unimaginable in the summer of 1998.