The European Union Delegation to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia celebrated Europe Day, reaffirming the values of unity, peace and international cooperation that continue to shape the European project since the historic Schuman Declaration of 9 May 1950.
The occasion commemorates the proposal made by French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman, which laid the foundations for what would later become the European Union and marked a turning point in promoting lasting peace and cooperation across Europe.
Speaking during the celebration, His Excellency Ambassador Christophe Farnaud reflected on the enduring relevance of the Schuman Declaration in today’s rapidly changing world. He noted that while global conflicts and geopolitical challenges continue to threaten stability and prosperity, important transformations are also creating new opportunities for progress and cooperation.
“Innovation is accelerating medical breakthroughs, expanding access to knowledge and opening new economic frontiers. Society is more connected than ever. The real question is whether we shape these changes or are shaped by them,” Ambassador Farnaud said.
“The European Union’s answer is clear: we need to act, embrace transformation that empowers progress, and stand up where our values and interests are at risk,” he added.
Ambassador Farnaud also underlined the strong parallels between Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the European Union’s approach to addressing global change, particularly in the areas of economic diversification, social development and sustainability.
He stressed that meaningful progress can only be achieved through partnership, dialogue and a shared commitment to overcoming common challenges — principles that remain at the heart of the Schuman Declaration and the European Union’s vision for the future.
