‘What started out as a European peace project must in the 21st century become a factor for peace in the world. Our young people will, without a doubt, back such a project. Because it is above all they who dream of a world like that.
It is what our citizens are calling for out and what is expected of us outside Europe. We have the means. There are 500 million of us; we generate a quarter of gross global product; we are the world’s leading trading power; and we account for half of all development aid. With those instruments we must build a great deal, to a very high level. […] Europe is a global player speaking with one voice and playing a decisive role in world peace and stability. Europe is an inescapable factor in resolving any international conflict or crisis. Europe, a point of reference for a world based on solid, respectable laws and institutions. That is my idea of Europe. And I believe with all my heart that this can and should be the next achievemt in the grand European project. We have the capability. Let us mobilise the political will and make it happen.’