Today, in Luxembourg, the birthplace of Robert Schuman, we celebrate the historic declaration of 9 May 1950, which laid the foundation for the European Union as we know it today.

Seventy-five years ago, in a continent recovering from the devastation of World War II, visionary leaders decided to unify coal and steel production to ensure lasting peace in Europe. Their simple yet groundbreaking effort to replace rivalry with shared sovereignty through economic and political integration paved the way for prosperity, peace, democracy, solidarity, and cooperation in Europe.

Over the years, more countries joined the European project, attracted by shared values, democracy, and unity among our continents peoples.

Today, our work for peace in Europe, the essence of the Schuman Declaration, is unfinished. Europe faces major challenges again. Russias aggression against Ukraine has brought war to our doorstep. Global tensions are rising, and climate change affects millions in Europe and worldwide.

We reaffirm our commitment to a European project that unites our people and to enlargement as the EUs best geopolitical investment. We are redoubling efforts to ensure continued economic prosperity, enhanced competitiveness, and social progress for European citizens. We take unprecedented steps to strengthen our security, defense, and strategic autonomy. We are determined to uphold a rules-based international order, strengthen multilateralism, and act as a reliable global partner.

Europe is master of its destiny. We support Ukraine in its efforts towards a just and lasting peace. The spirit of the Schuman Declaration lives on, guiding us to ensure peace, prosperity, solidarity, and cooperation in Europe.