On May 9, 1950, Robert Schuman called on the nations of Europe to unite and make war on our continent impossible. Sixty-five years later, his message of peace and unity is as relevant as ever.
Schuman's appeal to overcome age-old divisions just five years after World War II laid the foundations of what has become the European Union. Over the years our union has grown from six to 28 to become the world's largest peace project. The dreams of our founding fathers have become a reality.
But peace and prosperity — based on a deep commitment to fundamental rights, democracy and the rule of law — cannot be taken for granted. It is a constant work in progress, something that must be nurtured and protected.