The commemoration will take place on Saturday, March 25, at the Palazzo dei Conservatori on Capitol Hill where the Treaty of Rome establishing the European Economic Community was signed 60 years ago - which later paved the way for the creation of the European Union. (Live online broadcasting at www.governo.it.)
27 heads of state or government and leaders of EU institutions will sign the Rome Declaration which will set out a joint vision and guidelines for the future of Europe.
According to the President, the Community created as a voluntary union of nations after World War II evolved into a unique model of democracy, peace, human rights, and well-being. EU member states have demonstrated time and again that working together can overcome the toughest challenges. Strong political will and willingness to reach agreement will make the European Union capable of renewing, listening to citizens and hearing their concerns, and eventually developing into a stronger, better functioning Community.
The President underscored that EU membership provided Lithuania not only with economic advantages, but also with a powerful engine of economic progress, bringing in more transparency and high western standards across a wide range of areas. Over the last thirteen years, Lithuania’s economy kept growing to reach the current 75 percent per capita GDP of the EU average, compared to 46 percent in 2004. 86 percent of Lithuanians think that EU membership is beneficial to their country.
European leaders will also meet with Pope Francis on the eve of a summit. (Live online broadcasting at www.ctv.va/content/ctv/it/livetv.html.)
Pope Frances is strongly committed to Europe. He spreads the message of European unity and solidarity, defends fundamental EU values - peace, freedom, human rights, and democracy - and has repeatedly urged to effectively address the migration crisis.
Last year, the Holy Father was awarded the prestigious International Charlemagne Prize of Aachen for wielding unquestioned moral authority over millions of Europeans.
Live broadcasts of the events celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Treaties of Rome will be also available on the satellite channel EBU.
