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President issues statement regarding the 50th Anniversary of the Treaty of Rome
• 05 Apr 2007 •
 PRESIDENT Cavaco Silva has issued a statement alluding to the 50th Anniversary of the Treaty of Rome, which established the European Economic Community. Prior to his speech, the president attended the performances of the Portuguese National Anthem and of the European Anthem (Ode to Joy) by the Army Band.
Cavaco Silva, who was born in Boliqueime in the Algarve, said: “Never, as in these last fifty years was peace on the European continent so lasting and enduring; never were the Europeans aware of such an intense period of economic and social development,” adding: “European integration has been a true anchor of peace, stability and progress for the European continent.
“The fall of the Berlin wall and the implosion of the Soviet regime were also caused by the success of the European integration. Much has been achieved, but there is still a long way to go. At this time, the European Union has to find the answers to the challenges with which we are now being faced. To begin with, the economic and social challenge within the framework of globalisation, as well as the challenge of energy and climatic changes, which are these days facing new and complex threats.
“The European Union requires a new political inspiration which will allow it to act and decide with greater democratic legitimacy, more effectiveness and greater cohesion. The World itself claims that Europe intervenes with greater strength in the defence of peace, stability and in the balance of international relationships.”
The president reminded those present that Portugal joined the EU in 1986 and has since been a “stable, keen and cohesive partner.” Cavaco Silva stressed that “Portugal has greatly benefited from adhesion, not only in the terms of economic development but also in its external image. But Portugal has equally contributed greatly to European integration, with its identity and character, with its external calling and capacity to build bridges between regions and civilizations.”
The president concluded the statement with the announcement of a personal commitment to join the government on its aim to have a successful presidency of the EU during the second half of this year. Cavaco Silva said: “Our Country will preside, during the next half year, to the Council of the European Union.
This will be our third instance and, similarly to those previous, will surely honour the prestige of Portugal. Bringing efforts together and priming all participants is a national commitment, with which I associate myself as President of the Republic.” |  Return to Top
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