Luc Frieden: « Stand together or fall individually »
« Today’s Europe is the result of a decision. It had to be made. And luckily it was hit, » emphasized Prime Minister Luc Frieden (CSV) on Tuesday in Aachen in the course of the celebrations for the awarding of the Charles Prize in Aachen and looked back on the end of the Second World War.
In Aachen, the Charlemagne Prize is awarded to people every year who contribute significantly to the unity of Europe. Receives this year Ursula von der Leyen as President of the European Commission on Thursday. There were also award winners from Luxembourg: The Luxembourg population in 1986 and the Former Prime Minister Jean-Claude Juncker in 2006.
Unlike in his Speech on the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the end of the war on May 8th Looked at peace this time not only into the past, but also into the present. « The geopolitical structure of the period after the Second World War and even more after the Cold War is questioned. Historical alliances are questioned, » said the head of government.
He pointed out the war « on European soil » and the advance of Protectionism. He again emphasized that investments in security are necessary. This is « not a decision for the war, but a commitment to peace ».
Gilles Roth: Three percent hurdle does not have to be torn for additional military spending
The Luxembourg recalled that Robert Schuman had requested 1950Europe should build up through concrete services.
Regain European sovereignty
« The democratic systems are undermined from the inside and outside. These challenges present us with an easy choice: standing together or falling individually, » said Frieden. Europe had to regain its sovereignty and go its own way. Only when the European countries are united can they play an important role compared to the other major powers in the world, such as the United States, China and India.
How Trump’s Russia policy in the West causes confusion
Peace also commented on the relationship with the USA. « The new US government has made it clear that it will pursue a new course in some important questions, » said the Premier. However, it has to be worked hard to preserve the historical partnership between Europeans and Americans, « because we basically have the same constitutional values and historical roots ». Peace was convinced that the United States will remain a pillar and an important ally in NATO.
Peace had clear words « to the humanitarian catastrophe that takes place in Gaza ». « I ask all parties to immediately accept negotiations on an armistice, the release of all hostages and the quick and unimpeded provision of humanitarian aid throughout the Gaza Strip. »
