On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I congratulate our friends in the European Union on the celebration of Europe Day.
Sixty years ago, Robert Schuman called for an organized European continent blessed by solidarity and peace. Out of this “Schuman declaration” evolved the strong and prosperous European Union we hail as a friend and key ally today, a tremendous achievement for the people of Europe. This has been a historic time for Europe, with the passage of the Lisbon Treaty and the further development of the Union. And today, the ties between the EU, its members and the United States are more important than ever.
We are bound together by our common history, shared democratic values and enduring ties of culture and commerce. We are working together as partners to meet the challenges and seize the opportunities of the 21st century -- including overcoming the economic uncertainties of the global recession.
Once again, in honor of this Europe Day, I offer our warmest wishes to all the people of the European Union.
