Dear Friends,
I am delighted to celebrate Europe Day with you. Each year, on 9 May, we mark the birthday of the European Union. It is a day to commemorate our shared values, our unity and our enduring commitment to peace and cooperation.
The EU emerged from the ashes of World War II with a clear purpose: to ensure that such a tragedy would never be repeated. On 9 May 1950, French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman presented his historic declaration, proposing the creation of the European Coal and Steel Community. By pooling coal and steel production, the idea was to make war “not merely unthinkable, but materially impossible.”
This declaration marked the beginning of a new era for Europe - one defined by reconciliation, integration and democratic collaboration. It laid the foundation for what has become the European Union: a union that has brought stability and prosperity to the continent.
This year holds particular significance, as we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration. Moreover, this milestone coincides with the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, a reminder of the devastating conflict from which the European Union was born.
Europe Day is a moment to reflect on these achievements and to look ahead. In a world shaped by rapid change, shifting global dynamics and rising geopolitical tensions, it is more important than ever to uphold and strengthen the European project. The Russian war in Ukraine reminds us that peace is precious but fragile.
To our friends in Thailand, we reaffirm our commitment to deepening our partnership and dialogue under the EU-Thailand Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA), in force since last October. We look forward to working together to enhance cooperation on shared prosperity and sustainable development, security, climate change, culture, human rights and trade, notably, through the ongoing negotiations toward a Free Trade Agreement and many more areas.
Happy Europe Day!
HE Mr David Daly
Ambassador of the European Union to Thailand
