“Sixty-three years ago on this day, Robert Schuman’s declaration paved the way for the adventure of European integration, the realisation of the most ambitious and successful plan for peace, cooperation and democracy in modern times.
This anniversary is an opportunity for reflection on and evaluation of the European course. It would be a mistake for us to overlook the historic accomplishments of the European Union – accomplishments that are not to be taken for granted; accomplishments that we must safeguard: peace and cooperation between European peoples, the values of democracy and human rights, which are currently under attack from ideologies and political conduct that share roots with those that once bloodied Europe, staining its culture.
Today’s anniversary is also an opportunity for us to reflect on the shortfalls and weaknesses of the European structure. We need to intensify and accelerate the efforts to overcome the structural weaknesses and deficiencies of the Economic and Monetary Union and to promote policies for growth and employment for all European citizens, and youth in particular.
To paraphrase Albert Einstein, we will achieve the future we deserve.”
May 9, 2013