On December 3, 2024, Romania’s Permanent Representation to the Council of Europe will host a special event in Strasbourg to celebrate the country’s National Day. The highlight of the evening will be the screening of the documentary “Wild Danube,” directed by British journalist Charlie Ottley. This film offers a captivating journey through the Danube Delta across all four seasons, showcasing its rich biodiversity and the vibrant communities that inhabit the region.
Ambassador Ion Jinga, Romania’s Permanent Representative to the Council of Europe, emphasized the significance of this event, stating, “For the celebration of the National Day, we thought that, alongside the official reception that the Permanent Representation of Romania to the Council of Europe will organize on December 3, the most appropriate would be to bring a corner of Romania to Strasbourg. And, because ‘a picture is worth a thousand words,’ we chose the documentary film ‘Wild Danube,’ which speaks in eloquent images about a unique place in Europe and a fabulous part of eternal Romania, the Danube Delta.” (TVR Info, November 28, 2024)
Charlie Ottley, renowned for his “Wild Carpathia” series, continues his mission to promote Romania’s natural beauty and cultural heritage through “Wild Danube.” The documentary highlights the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of the Danube Delta and delves into the traditions and lifestyles of its local communities. Notably, the film features an interview with the late Ivan Patzaichin, the legendary Romanian canoeist born in the village of Mila 23, who was a passionate advocate for the Delta’s preservation.
Reflecting on the importance of sustainable tourism, Ottley remarked, “It is a privilege to present to the Council of Europe the beauty and complexity of Romania’s Danube Delta, the Amazon of Europe, on Romania’s National Day. We are honored by this invitation and hope to show as many representatives of the European community as possible what treasures we have in Romania and why tourism can offer a sustainable future for rural areas.” (TVR Info, November 28, 2024)
The Danube Delta, spanning approximately 4,455 square kilometers, with 3,510 square kilometers located in Romania and the remainder in Ukraine, is one of Europe’s most significant wetlands. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is home to over 5,000 species of plants and animals, making it a vital reservoir of biodiversity.
This event at the Council of Europe is a poignant reminder of the Danube Delta’s ecological and cultural importance. By showcasing “Wild Danube,” Romania aims to raise awareness about the need to protect and preserve this unique ecosystem for future generations.
For those interested in exploring the Danube Delta’s wonders, “Wild Danube” offers an immersive experience that captures the essence of this extraordinary region. The film is a testament to the harmonious coexistence between nature and humanity, underscoring the importance of sustainable practices to maintain this delicate balance.
As Romania celebrates its National Day, promoting the Danube Delta at the Council of Europe highlights the country’s commitment to environmental conservation and the celebration of its natural heritage. It invites the global community to recognize and support preserving one of Europe’s last great wildernesses.
Reference:
TVR Info. “Delta Dunării va fi promovată la Consiliul Europei de Ziua Națională a României.” TVR Info, November 28, 2024. Retrieved from https://tvrinfo.ro/delta-dunarii-va-fi-promovata-la-consiliul-europei-de-ziua-nationala-a-romaniei.