Catherine Ashton, the High Representative of the
«Today is the 62nd anniversary of the Schuman Declaration.
Every year we celebrate Europe Day by looking back at the history of European integration and the things we have accomplished together.
But it should also be an opportunity to look forward.
We read a lot in the press about the financial crisis and the economic problems we are facing. But the basis of the European economy remains strong. And the common values that bring us together are more important than ever.
The coming year will be crucial for Europe’s recovery – and for
But also how we engage globally.
I am convinced that
There has been a lot of progress since we marked Schuman Day last year.
We are building up the European External Action Service, including a fully joined up Crisis management system so that we can deliver comprehensive solutions on the ground, be it in
I have travelled to many countries and regions – visiting every continent including a striking trip to the
Everywhere I go, I take a message on behalf of
Everywhere I go, I hear that others from outside Europe want to work with a
So that is what I intend to do next.
In short, we will continue to do what the framers of the Lisbon Treaty — and long before them, Robert Schuman — intended; for
There is much we have achieved in the past year; but even more to be done. »