Ladies and Gentlemen,
Let me begin by expressing my shock and concern at yesterday’s explosions at the Boston marathon. Our thoughts go out to the families of the victims.
On 16 April 2003, the European Union embarked on a bold new venture in its extraordinary history and welcomed to the European family no fewer than 10 new members. The Czech Republic, Cyprus, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia signed the Treaty of Accession to the EU at the Stoa of Attalos in Athens. This historic event took place during the then Greek Presidency of the Council of the EU, and it is with great pleasure and pride that we celebrate it, here in Athens, ten years later to the day.
This enlargement was indeed an event that would mark the political and economic character of the European continent in a most decisive way. It would have a profound effect on the way the EU was to be molded in the future, and it had an even greater impact on the concept, the policies and the perspectives of our common European homeland.
Now, looking back, we can all profess with pride and satisfaction that this wave of enlargement has been a success, not only for the then acceding countries, but also for the EU as a whole, increasing its political and economic weight in the world and rendering it a stronger international partner. It helped overcome the division of Europe and contributed to stability throughout the continent. It inspired reforms and consolidated the common principles of liberty, democracy, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms and the rule of law.
The integration of these new members into a greater European Union marked the beginning of a new era. After two world wars and several decades of division, it reunited the European peoples in a community of values. Νow, Europe could look forward to strengthening its social and economic cohesion, and furthering the common interests of its citizens.
And yet, this bold decision was in no way a straightforward undertaking. The gratification that came with further unification of the European family coincided with the pressing need for transformation of the European institutions so that they might better take into account the Union’s much larger nature and diversified needs.
There was, then, a school of thought which maintained that the EU’s institutional transformation would have to precede its actual enlargement. And yet, answering the call of the then aspirants to accession, the Union opted for a truly visionary and brave approach, deciding to simultaneously enlarge in form and deepen in scope, proving that it could rise to the challenge successfully. Greece staunchly supported this vision throughout the debate preceding what would become the Union’s biggest enlargement.
The motive for this enlargement was not linked solely to specific geopolitical parameters, but also to the ideal of solidarity within the European family. A solidarity deeply rooted in the fundamental understanding that, together, Europeans can create a better future and face any challenge, particularly in an ever more interconnected and globalized world.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Today we have an additional reason to commemorate this singular event in our common history. As the European Union once again stands before a great challenge, there are those who maintain that it has lost much of its former momentum.
Under the strain of the dire social repercussions of the worst economic crisis since World War II, the primary task ahead is to safeguard the Union’s internal cohesion and cooperation. To continue to nurture synergy among its members. And most importantly, we have to safeguard the prospects for the future of its citizens. Stability, prosperity and hope are the new watchwords of the European endeavour.
We responded boldly 10 years ago. And our response to the present challenges will again determine how the European Union evolves toward the future. And it is the ideal of European integration that is once more at stake.
Croatia’s upcoming accession is a blow to both enlargement fatigue and Euro-skepticism. It will bear out, yet again, the fundamental truth that a European perspective – the process of adapting to European standards – is the tool par excellence for building democracy and stability, peace and prosperity. It will bring back into focus the vision of Southeast Europe as a European neighbourhood.
My Dear Friends,
Greece will continue to be a staunch supporter of the European integration of all Western Balkan countries. This is a strategic foreign policy choice and constant parameter for us. At the same time, we have to be clear with all our partners and neighbors. Integration into the European family cannot be an option for countries that are not willing to create the necessary conditions for good neighborly relations. This cannot be a forced marriage.
In the midst of all these challenges, I am optimistic that, through the sustained efforts of its member states and institutions, the European construct will persevere, emerging stronger and more confident.
The months to come are of critical importance. Bold and calculated decisions have to be taken to break the vicious circle of recession. Decisions that will steer us clear of economic instability and support growth and job creation. Decisions that will give new hope and real prospects to Europe’s youth. It is in this spirit that Greece is preparing for the Presidency of the Council of the EU in 2014, and we will spare no effort to contribute to this endeavour.
April 17, 2013