Mattarella urges von der Leyen to strengthen social consensus around the EU

Brussels – Rethinking Europe and working to bring it closer to its people. President of the Republic Sergio Mattarella urges the College of Commissioners to be “effective in providing quick and rational responses to the needs and legitimate concerns of our Union’s citizens,” as it is here that the future of the twelve-star project is at stake. “The more transparent and efficient the EU institutions prove to be, the stronger the necessary social consensus becomes,” is the message the Head of State delivered to the entire European Commission and its President, Ursula von der Leyen, on the second day of his official visit to the EU capital.

According to Mattarella, Europe’s legitimacy and meaning are essential elements for the future. Europeanism is needed because we are living through “a truly decisive historical moment for our Union,” the Head of State warned. “This historical moment calls us to retrace the path taken over these decades and, while aware of shortcomings and delays, to feel pride in the European project that we have all helped build.”

No reconsideration or hesitation — the EU is not, and cannot be, called into question. On the contrary, the President of the Republic tells all members of the European Commission:
“We must start from this awareness to reflect on the future of the continental integration project in a historical moment that is so turbulent and exposed to multiple, even unforeseen, disruptions to the international order.” This order must continue to be based on rules and be “respectful of peoples and the equal dignity among nations.” Mattarella urges that this necessary reflection be “oriented toward action and concreteness, to safeguard the authority and prestige of the European Union in the world, and to promote its interests and values.”

On the global relaunch of the EU, Mattarella can already count on the intentions of von der Leyen, who is determined to give the European Union an entirely new role in the world. The President of the European Commission is also fully aware of the importance of believing in and insisting on Europe’s centrality. She made a point of thanking Mattarella for his character and commitment in this regard. “Today, we welcome you here not only as a statesman but also as a European at heart,” said von der Leyen, offering praise and gratitude: “Throughout your life, you have always worked to put Italy at the center of Europe.”