Bitter experience has taught us how fundamental our values are and how great the mission they represent.

Day after day we must remember we can take freedom for granted. Day after day we must keep the bond between freedom and other values in mind.

The necessity for co-operation between Europe and the United States is bigger than ever. Only by close transatlantic co-operation can we face the world's challenges.

The generation which lived through the Second World War is disappearing. Post-war generations see Europe's great achievements - liberty, peace and prosperity - as a given.

Terrorism is an evil that threatens all the countries in Europe. Vigorous cooperation in the European Union and worldwide is crucial in order to meet this evil head on.

Bitter experience has taught us how fundamental our values are and how great the mission they represent.

We can prevent Europe from becoming a spiritless machine that, in the end, grinds to a halt.