In a statement released on the official website of the Presidency of the Republic, the head of state notes that today marks the 75th anniversary of the “Schuman Declaration,” a foundational moment for the European peace project.
The President of the Republic stated that, “with all its imperfections, the European construction has been globally a success for its citizens and for the world, as recognized by a majority of Europeans.”
“In Portugal, we have benefited greatly from our accession to the European Union 40 years ago. When we are attacked from the East and the West, it is the success of our project of a common European home that is envied, our democratic balance, our dream of living better, in freedom, and without wars,” he considers.
“This is also what we wish for all peoples,” adds Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa.
In this note, the President of the Republic also highlights that Thursday marked “80 years since the end of World War II in Europe” and notes that now “another terrible war is ravaging European territory, with Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.”
The head of state believes that, in the current juncture, “it is important to remember that, over these decades, Europeans have been able to build peace in common, restore democracy and freedoms, and solidify the rule of law.”
Europeans have been able to “complete decolonization, respecting the right of peoples to self-determination, promote and respect human rights, ensure well-being, equal opportunities, and become the vanguard of respect for nature and sustainable development,” he adds.
