Van Rompuy focused on three issues decided in the wake of the 9th November 1989: the euro, free movement of all EU citizens, and Europe’s foreign policy.
He stressed the need for all European countries to reform, “without any exception”. In this context he said about Germany: “Over these last years, within the eurozone, the role of Germany has been essential. Not only have you stood by the euro, but you have been perhaps the strongest advocate for economic reforms – alerting to risks, injecting economic foresight into the European debate. That is something for which I commend your political leaders. Your country faces its own foretold risks and challenges for the future. To prevent them from materialising tomorrow, it is today that your country must act boldly. For results as for reforms, the most convincing leadership is leadership by example."
Van Rompuy also addressed the issue of populism in many countries. “Populism: an outlet for anger and resentment, the promise of a restored identity, the illusion that closing a fence can turn back the clock, the lie that you can survive on the global market without efforts…” In order to redress the situation, “the first and basic answer: results. We are clearly going through a difficult phase, but the track is right. In the end people will be best convinced by results. By growth coming back, by jobs being created; by the visible signs that the work that societies and governments are doing – individually and jointly as a Union – is paying off.”
However for Van Rompuy convincing people is not a matter of economy alone, but also a matter of words: “Leaders must tell the truth. One such truth is that there are no quick fixes, that reforms on growth and jobs takes time. Another one, that the ultimate answer to the crisis does not lie in new financial instruments (funds or bonds), nor in a return to national currencies, but in changes in the real economy. And yet another truth: that the cost of non-Europe would be unbearable. Those who pretend that their country can succeed on its own sell illusions.
Press release
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