The resilience of the European project in the face of extremism, disinformation and hostile interference requires joint, firm and constant action, in full respect of the fundamental values of freedom and human dignity, interim prime minister Catalin Predoiu stated on Friday, in a message on the occasion of Europe Day.

„Today, 75 years after the Schuman Declaration, we celebrate, together with the entire European community, Europe Day – a fundamental milestone in post-war history and in the construction of the European project. It is a moment of reflection on the path taken by Europe and, at the same time, a renewed commitment to the values that formed its foundation: peace, freedom, solidarity and the rule of law. The declaration made by Robert Schuman on May 9, 1950 represented more than a momentary vision. It was the expression of a courageous and lucid political will, at a time when Europe was rising from the ruins of war. The European Coal and Steel Community was born then – the first institutionalized form of European solidarity – from which today’s European Union evolved, a unique construction in history, which guarantees cooperation, democracy and development for hundreds of millions of citizens,” said Catalin Predoiu.

He underscored that Romania is an active part of this project, and our accession to the European Union meant modernisation, prosperity and a firm anchoring in the system of democratic values.

„European funds, freedom of movement, the consolidation of the institutions of the rule of law – all these are evidence of the profound and positive impact of our membership in the EU. Our integration continues, and full accession to the Schengen Area this year is clear proof of the irreversibility of our European path,” added Predoiu.

We celebrate Europe Day in a complex geopolitical context, marked by overlapping crises and challenges to the rules-based international order, the interim prime minister underscored.

He also pointed out that the enlargement of the Union remains one of the most important strategic instruments for stability and peace in the region.

„Romania unequivocally supports the continuation of this process, both in the Western Balkans and in the Eastern Neighbourhood. From Chisinau to Skopje, the European aspirations of these peoples must be upheld, supported and encouraged,” reiterated Predoiu.

AGERPRES