Progressives from across Europe, working at every level – trade unionists, party leaders, mayors, MEPs, European Commissioners, and prime ministers – will convene on Monday 3 May 2021 for Our Europe, Our Future.
PES President Sergei Stanishev said:
“It is only logical to start our debates on the future of Europe here in Rome, arguably the birthplace of the EU, hosted by our friends, Partito Democratico.
“At its beginning, the European project was a response to the devastating effects of war. It was a symbol of peace, unity, and solidarity. Now, the public health crisis has shown how important it is that we maintain this spirit of solidarity and continue to work together as Europeans.
“It is time for Europe to reconnect with its citizens and their ambitions for a fairer and more sustainable continent. The upcoming Conference on the Future of Europe is the moment we set the future course for Europe and we are ready to make it a success, beginning once again in Rome.”
S&D President Iratxe Garcia said:
“Ahead of Europe’s Day, we want to send a strong message from Rome: that we all depend on each other. This was the core message of the 9 May Schuman Declaration: that we should gradually build a Europe of solidarity. And it is time to take a new step to actualise the EU to make it better fit to address the needs and concerns of our citizens. This must be the main goal of the Conference on the Future of Europe.
“Next Monday we, European progressives, will launch our joint initiative to open up to stakeholders and civil society to work together for a more efficient, sustainable, equitable and fair European Union.”
European Commission Executive Vice-President Frans Timmermans, German Vice-Chancellor and Finance minister Olaf Scholz, Portuguese Prime Minister António Costa, Partito Democratico Secretary Enrico Letta, S&D President Iratxe Garcia, PES President Sergei Stanishev and many others from the PES family will take part in the discussion.
The hybrid event – co-organised by the PES, S&D and PD – will be livestreamed, beginning at 11:45 CET. More information is available on the Facebook event page.