On 9 May 1950, Robert Schuman paved the way for European integration. His vision, commitment and determination led us to what has become the European Union. “On the occasion of Europe Day, we must remain united to protect our core values of democracy, freedom, tolerance and the rule of law in order to prevail in the fight against the threats facing Europe today”, said EPP President Joseph Daul. To stress the importance of peace and prosperity, Robert Schuman said on 9 May 1950, “World peace cannot be safeguarded without the making of creative efforts proportionate to the dangers which threaten it”. “Today more than ever, the peace of our continent cannot be safeguarded without a common and functional security union, including a European army. EU countries must come together and commit to further cooperation, information exchange and counter-radicalisation efforts. This is the only way to defend our core values and defend the lives of EU citizens. The EU should protect its citizens”, said President Daul. In 1950, Europe had to cope with the devastating consequences of World Word II. Robert Schuman advocated for deepening economic relations. He said in his 9 May speech, “The pooling of coal and steel production should immediately provide for the setting up of common foundations for economic development as a first step in the federation of Europe (…)”. “Today, we must continue the process of European economic integration, started by our founding fathers, in order to establish a truly integrated single market. The European Union, the largest economy in the world, cannot rest on its laurels. It is high time to be innovative, facilitate the circulation of services and offer easy access to a single capital market. Our courage to introduce economic reforms goes hand in hand with the need for more fiscal and social harmonization and our commitment to a European social agenda. We must secure a more social Europe and make sure no one is left behind”, said the EPP President. “Robert Schuman was truly committed to a federal Europe based on solidarity, as one of the core Christian Democratic values. A single country cannot tackle our current challenges, such as the migration crisis and the fight against terrorism, on its own. Only by working together we can find successful solutions and keep working for the future of next generations”.