Last week we received many visitors to the Embassy and many messages of condolence on the death of Margaret Thatcher. I was touched to read the sentiments of the many admirers that she had in Romania, and her achievements as seen by people in this part of Europe.
In the first place, she is seen as a symbol of the struggle against communism, and a source of hope for people in Romania in the darkest days of the Ceaucescu regime. Some describe her fighting spirit, her patriotism, and her leadership in ending the nightmare of communism which made her a true friend of Romania. As one Romanian wrote ‘thank you for changing our destiny, for making us free’. Others emphasise her leadership in another area – in demonstrating that politics should be open for anyone, regardless of their social position, their sex or their race. And of course there is recognition for the deep reforms she enacted in the UK economy, as well as the vision she brought to major projects like the Channel Tunnel.
Margaret Thatcher was a Prime Minister who changed Britain, and changed Europe. Her joy when communism fell in Romania was spontaneous and heartfelt. On receiving the news of Ceacescu’s downfall she said “we welcome Romania to the family of free nations”. In this part of Europe freedom is her enduring legacy, and one to reflect upon during the ceremonies of rememberance in London today.
