Toespraak Van Rompuy bij openingsceremonie van nieuwe EU-voorzitter Cyprus (en)

EUCO 137/12

PRESSE 323

PR PCE 119

Speech by Herman Van Rompuy

President of the European Council

at the Official Opening Ceremony of the Cyprus Presidency

of the Council of the European Union

It is a great pleasure and honour to address you today in such a historic, and scenic, location. I cannot imagine a better setting to witness Cyprus' début in this leading role: the Presidency of the Council, at the centre stage of the European Union.

Your country is taking on this important responsibility in a decisive moment in the History of our Union. Our continent is facing huge socio-economic challenges. To overcome them, we have to make important choices, some of which will bring unprecedented changes to the way we work as a Union. If we want to shape our future, we must shape this change - it is the only way forward.

In the months ahead, there is much to be done, bringing all countries and institutions together in a common effort for growth, jobs and stability, and Cyprus is going to play an important part.

Your Presidency has set itself a goal which I share: to work towards a better Europe, a Europe of hope. Together, we will share this common role: to ensure that Europe, again, becomes a symbol of hope. A symbol of opportunity, fairness, and achievement. Of a better future for all.

Your contribution will be in the limelight: for the coming six months, not only are you in the Union, you are the Union. I hope this will be a proud moment - a moment of European belonging - for all the citizens of this island.

Cyprus can count on my personal support and on that of the European Union in the efforts to reach a settlement. This will require strong political will and a sense of conciliation from all involved.

Overcoming this division is of momentous importance for our Union: as long as Cyprus is divided, in a way Europe will be divided. Bridging this divide will pave the way towards a better future for Cyprus, and make of Cyprus a symbol of hope.

I am looking forward to working together for "a better Europe" with the Cyprus Presidency. We will face many problems but I am confident that we will overcome them.