Founded in 1956, the Institute of Atomic Physics (IFA) from Măgurele-Bucharest is the iconic institute of Romania from which emerged, in 1996, most of today’s national institutes for R&D in physics and related areas. Since then, IFA has been entrusted the role of funding agency for Romania’s participation at CERN and other European organisations and research infrastructures in the field. The symposium dedicated to the 68th anniversary of IFA will begin with a review of the institute's main historical milestones, recent achievements and perspectives. The event includes a section dedicated to the 70th anniversary of CERN, with a presentation for the general public about the role, contribution and importance of CERN, and about Romania's participation in CERN, followed by questions, answers and discussions. The symposium will conclude with the award of IFA distinctions for the years 2022 and 2023 to international physics Olympiad winners and seniors with outstanding contributions to the development of the field.