Nicușor Dan refused French citizenship, although it was offered to him during his studies in France

President Nicușor Dan said in an interview with Antena Stars, published on October 5, that he refused the offer to obtain French citizenship because he would not have considered the decision “honest.” The head of state explained that he left for France determined to return to Romania, even though his period of study was extended from one year to six.

Nicușor Dan said he felt like a foreigner in France and that he remained connected to Romania during his studies. He recounted that his professor noticed that, although he attended courses and academic discussions, “his mind was in Romania.”

The president said he respects the French people and culture and is grateful for the years of education financed by the French state, but he considered accepting citizenship inappropriate given that his intention was to return home.

Nicușor Dan studied at the École Normale Supérieure, one of France’s most prestigious educational institutions, between 1992 and 1995, and then pursued a doctorate in mathematics at Sorbonne University. He also spoke about Romanians who left the country, saying that many emigrated because of financial difficulties and injustices.