Speech by Barroso at the National Theatre in Prague on 7 January 2009
José Manuel Durão Barroso
President of the European Commission
BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS: LOOKING FORWARD TO AN INNOVATIVE AND CREATIVE CZECH PRESIDENCY
Launch of Czech Presidency
Prague, 7 January 2008
Pane Presidente,
Pane Premiére,
Vážení hosté,
Dámy a Pánové
Dobrý večer
Jsem rád, že mohu být mezi Vámi
I'd like to begin by thanking Prime Minister Topolánek for inviting me to this festive - and historic - launch of the Czech Presidency. Who could have imagined 20 years ago, before the fall of the Iron Curtain, that the Czech Republic would now be leading the whole of Europe?
Holding the EU Presidency is a political role that gives the country concerned worldwide standing, and the ability to shape the European agenda.
The preparations for this Presidency have certainly been first class. I would like to pay tribute to Prime Minister Topolánek in particular. He understands that you can defend national interests while maintaining a European spirit. To all his team in the Government, in the diplomatic service, to all the experts and all those who are working for the Czech Presidency, I want to send my best wishes for a successful Presidency. I am sure that this is understood in the Czech Republic as a national goal that will enable Europe to know better and respect even more your country.
Your objective - 'breaking down barriers' – is an inspiring one, and you can rely on the Commission's full assistance in tackling your three main priorities: a Europe of competition; energy and climate change; an open and safe Europe.
These are all areas of direct interest to Europe's citizens. They offer an opportunity for the EU to again show its direct contribution to the people of Europe.
I have every confidence that the Czech Republic will deliver an effective Presidency with its characteristic flair and imagination.
Which brings me to this evening's other business: the European Year of Creativity and Innovation. Launching this European Year inspires two feelings.
First, we are celebrating the start of another important project of the European Union; so we raise our glasses and we wish the Year every success.
But there is also a sense of determination, because there has never been a better time to put Europe’s ability to innovate to the test. The economic crisis we are all facing means we must be more creative, more innovative, than ever.
All through 2009, there will be dozens of events across Europe organised under the banner of ‘creativity and innovation’.
Together, we will send a clear message of our determination to tap Europe’s capacity to create and innovate.
Above all, I hope that the European Year of Creativity and Innovation will serve as a source of inspiration and a catalyst for many people and organisations across Europe.
And this will be a measure of its success; because the change we are trying to promote is change that comes from among the people.
We will also be able to rely on around two dozen high-profile personalities from business, research, arts, design and culture who have agreed to support and promote the Year as European ambassadors. I welcome their willingness to cooperate with us, in particular two very illustrious Czechs – Dr Antonín Holý and Professor Doctor Blanka Říhová.
So let me end by offering my best wishes: to the Czech Presidency, to the European Year of Creativity and Innovation, and to all of you for a happy and prosperous 2009!
Děkuji Vám a těším se brzy nashledanou.
Last update: 16.8.2011 15:54
