Speech by the Head of EU Delegation to Türkiye on the occasion of Europe Day 9 May 2023
Ankara, 9 May 2023
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Dear Deputy Minister,
Excellencies, dear colleagues, distinguished guests, dear friends
For the second year now, we mark Europe Day in the shadow of a war raging on our continent. This terrible and illegal aggression of Russia against Ukraine has continued for over a year now. This can only drive us all to do more not only to help Ukraine and its citizens but also to contribute to putting an end to this unjustified war of aggression, while respecting Ukrainian sovereignty and territorial integrity.
73 years ago, Robert Schuman, one of the founding fathers of the European Union, wrote: “A united Europe was not achieved and we had war.” Since 9 May 1950, many more of us stand united in our determination to work for a peaceful Europe.
Many more believe in the power of concrete achievements making the world safer and fairer.
We have shown in the sincerest way that we can only go through these difficult times by standing together and helping each other.
This is precisely the message of the exhibition “Stronger Together” which just opened in Cer Modern.
You will have the opportunity during this reception and later this week to see photographs and video, which capture the pain and the immense loss Turkiye has been through after the devastating earthquake which hit 11 provinces in the country.
It immortalises the story of heroic solidarity among the people of Türkiye and the rescue teams, which came from all around the world, including more than 1,600 from the EU and its Member States.
This exhibition is a tribute to the first responders who performed miracles, in the midst of tragedy. It is a token of our heartfelt gratitude to those who showed the best of humanity in the most painful times.
As we mark Europe Day in Türkiye, let us remember the importance of standing together with Turkiye a key and long-standing partner, a NATO ally and a candidate country, especially in challenging times.
Few things bring people together more beautifully than art. Whether it is music, photography, or paint, the arts are always a way for us to express ourselves, our cultures and our shared humanity.
This is why I hope that this exhibition will also help heal the wounds left by the earthquake.
I am also pleased that the Antakya Civilisations Choir who lost seven of its members in the earthquakes, could perform on the occasion of Europe Day in several cities across the country.
And I thank the members of the European-Turkish string quartet who will play tonight a remarkable selection of classical music.
We are especially proud to have with us the Ukrainian Michelin-starred chef Mr Vasyl Kovach and his assistant Volodymyr Taran who came from Antalya to prepare two traditional delicacies for this special occasion, whom I invite to join me on stage.
Today again, let us remind ourselves that:
The European Union, as a peace project, was founded on the values of respect for freedom, democracy and the rule of law.
These values are still as relevant today as they were in 1950 when Robert Schuman made his historical declaration we are celebrating today.
We owe it to the generations who fought and for those who are still fighting for peace, justice and democracy to ensure that these very same values prevail.
This is what President von der Leyen also underlined with her visit and speech today in Kiev.
Thank you and Happy Europe Day to all of you!
9 May Europe Day celebrated with the theme of solidarity with the people of Türkiye.
Video- Opening of the Exhibition “Stronger Together”