France has played an important role in Romania's modernization, and this influence is still visible today in our culture, education and institutions, acting Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan said on Tuesday in a message marking the National Day of the French Republic.

'Today, on the National Day of France, we celebrate the close ties between our countries and mark 100 years since the signing of the French-Romanian Treaty of Friendship. France has played an important role in Romania's modernization, and this influence is still visible today in our culture, education and institutions,' Ilie Bolojan wrote on Facebook.

He added that the relationship between the two countries is currently based on a solid partnership.

'The French troops present in Romania contribute directly to the security of our country and of the region. In our turn, we stand by France when needed: 80 Romanian firefighters are currently working together with their French colleagues to prevent and combat forest fires,' Bolojan underscored.

He also pointed out that France is one of Romania's main foreign investors, with investments of over 12 billion euro and more than 11,000 companies registered in our country.

'We want to further develop this cooperation, especially in energy, the defence industry, technology and high value-added production,' Bolojan detailed.

The acting prime minister underscored the importance that the Romanian and French communities living and working together attach to their states' relationship.

'The bond between our countries is strengthened by the Romanian and French communities who live and work together. On this foundation we can build more concrete projects and even closer cooperation. Happy National Day, France! Happy French-Romanian friendship!,' Bolojan concluded his message. AGERPRES (RO - writing by: Daniel Florea; EN - writing by: Simona Klodnischi)