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

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.

Freedom is a universal value.

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.

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.

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.

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