Hellenic MFA, Friday, 09 May 2014
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"This year’s Europe Day anniversary,
commemorating the day on which Robert Schuman issued his celebrated
Declaration, is of particular symbolic importance to Greece, which
currently holds the Presidency of the Council of the European Union; a
Presidency that has already shown a number of tangible results in many
vital sectors.
Following the painful sacrifices made by its citizens, Greece is steadily emerging the years-long economic crisis , restoring its institutional equality, in the midst of a very difficult state of affairs. It can thus contribute to the Union’s effort to put forward a new European narrative; a new proposal for the Europe of growth and employment – for a Europe that give its citizens hope.
Even today, with the European Union facing off against a current of intense euroscepticism, Greece continues to believe in the European idea and in a Europe of principles and values.
The crises in Europe’s southern and eastern neighbourhoods accentuate the importance of peace, stability and prosperity on the European continent. Now more than ever, it is imperative that we shape a single, strong European voice on the world stage.
It is our duty today, as European citizens, to reflect on what unites us, to resist the Sirens of populism and nationalism, and to promote our common European values – moderation, democracy and dialogue – proving that the vision of Schuman and Monet remains vibrant."
[mfa.gr]
9/5/14
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Europe Day must not be a sterile celebration of past achievements...
ReplyDeleteAhead of Europe Day, 9 May, the President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz stated:
"Europe is marking two anniversaries this year: the 100th anniversary of World War One and the 10th anniversary since the historic enlargement of 2004.
These two symbolic events are a stark reminder of how much European integration has changed the European continent for the better: reuniting and reconciling people, expanding freedoms and the rule of law, consolidating democracy, pluralism and tolerance. It only suffices to look at Europe's closest neighbours to understand the extent to which Europe is still seen as a beacon of peace, prosperity and hope.
Yet, for the past five years, 'crisis' has been the word most often associated with Europe. Some Europeans have started seeing the EU as a source of anguish rather than hope, a threat rather than shelter.
Europe Day must not be a sterile celebration of past achievements. It must be a moment of reflection and mobilisation, an opportunity to rediscover the spirit of solidarity and vision which lies at the heart of the European project.
Europe remains our best tool to meet the challenges and deflect the threats of the XXI century: whether we look at international trade or global warming, migration or security.
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/the-president/en/press/press_release_speeches/press_release/2014/2014-may/html/europe-day-must-not-be-a-sterile-celebration-of-past-achievements
8/5/14