http://www.europarl.europa.eu/the-president/en/html/rootEuropean Parliament President Martin SchulzenThu, 01 Jan 1970 01:00:00 +0100Javlo 2The European Parliament position on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership is clear: the EU-US economic relationship should be reaffirmed and deepened. We need to realise the untapped potential of a truly integrated transatlantic market. The European Parliament wants a far-reaching negotiating mandate and will accompany the negotiations throughout. The European Parliament is convinced that an EU-US comprehensive trade and investment agreement has the potential to lead to a win-win situation and that a deeper degree of integration would considerably multiply the gains for both economies.]]>rfreedmanThu, 13 Jun 2013 09:41:14 +0200 The protests of Taksim Square are not a threat against the Turkish state; they are the expression of a vibrant civil society, a call for dialogue and pluralism. The government must embrace these demands, not suffocate them.]]>gfassinaWed, 12 Jun 2013 19:14:49 +0200 After almost a year of tough negotiations with the Council, in Strasbourg, the European Parliament adopted today a compromise with the Irish Presidency on improving the management of the EU's area without internal borders (the "Schengen area"). ]]>rfreedmanWed, 12 Jun 2013 17:29:36 +0200 President Schulz voiced Parliament's solidarity with flood victims across Europe in his opening address. He also welcomed Croatia's forthcoming accession to the European Union, but pointed out that the Council had yet to keep its promise to deliver fresh EU funding for it. Parliament will keep its vote on this funding on the agenda until Thursday, to give the Council time to do so, he added. ]]>rfreedmanMon, 10 Jun 2013 20:28:10 +0200 The conviction of 43 NGO workers is unacceptable, unjustified and intended to strangle a vivid civil society in Egypt. The court's decision to close five foreign NGOs in Egypt and to confiscate their assets contradicts the Egyptian government's international commitment to guarantee that NGOs and civic activists may operate freely in the country.]]>rfreedmanWed, 05 Jun 2013 17:54:04 +0200 Negotiations on a free trade agreement between the European Union and the United States should start as soon as possible, because a deal will bring huge benefits to both sides. Together, the EU and US account for half of the world's economic output and a third of global trade but there is still enormous potential in our economic ties. ]]>rfreedmanThu, 06 Jun 2013 14:24:29 +0200 President Schulz announced the six eligible candidates for the post of European Ombudsman, condemned Lega Nord MEP Mario Borghezio's radio remarks about Italy's Minister for Integration Cécile Kyenge Kashetu, and voiced support for Chinese human rights activist Cheng Guangcheng, in his opening address. ]]>rfreedmanFri, 31 May 2013 14:30:01 +0200 Despite the recent steps forward in certain countries, discrimination of the LGBT people in Europe remains worrying. We are rightly proud to be the continent of human rights, tolerance and respect. However, our record will not be satisfactory until discrimination, abuse, violence and harassment linked to sexual orientation is defeated. ]]>gfassinaThu, 06 Jun 2013 14:22:00 +0200 The donor conference for development in Mali sends a clear message to all Malians that the international community, its African partners and the European Union, with a leading role played by France, are with them in their struggle for the restoration of peace, democracy and unity in the country. The success of Mali will also be a success for the whole Sahel, Africa and Europe.]]>gfassinaThu, 06 Jun 2013 14:24:12 +0200 "On behalf of the European Parliament I condemn the twin car bombings in Turkey. We stand with Turkey as an ally, partner and candidate country for EU membership who is dealing with a tragic conflict on its border. This extreme violence and loss of life is deeply shocking. We offer our condolences to the families of the victims and support to the Turkish authorities and people."]]>rfreedmanThu, 16 May 2013 16:44:49 +0200 The President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz will pay an official visit to the Pan-African Parliament and South Africa on Monday and Tuesday, 12 and 13 May. The visit will be an occasion to strengthen the ties between the European Parliament and the Pan-African Parliament, the legislative body of the African Union, as well as with the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces of South Africa. ]]>rfreedmanFri, 17 May 2013 15:22:30 +0200 With his profile, Mr Azevêdo is well placed to mediate between the different sensitivities of developing, emerging and industrialised countries - key to lead the Doha Development Agenda to a success. ]]>gfassinaFri, 17 May 2013 16:34:27 +0200 It is easy to celebrate Europe when times are good, employment high and growth strong. It is harder when you have just lost your job, or cannot find one after graduating or had to close down your family business because of toughening credit conditions. ]]>gfassinaThu, 16 May 2013 12:17:22 +0200 I am particularly worried by last week's votes in parliament to amend a number of important laws. Those changes, such as the possibility to dismiss Constitutional Court judges by parliament if they lose its trust, have far-reaching, potentially negative consequences for the country's democratic development. Those amendments were passed too hastily and without proper consultations and preparation. They were heavily criticised by both the Council of Europe and the Venice Commission. ]]>gfassinaTue, 07 May 2013 16:14:05 +0200 "This indeed was a crucial meeting on budgetary matters and good progress was made. The European Parliament wants to ensure that the EU's bills for 2013 can be paid. European citizens are benefiting from programmes ranging from Erasmus to the European Social Fund must know that the necessary funds will still be available at the end of the year. Key negotiations can now be opened on the long-term EU budget, but I underline nothing is agreed until everything is agreed. ]]>rfreedmanTue, 07 May 2013 10:02:53 +0200 As stated by the Prime Minister in his speech before the chambers, austerity is suffocating not only Italy, but also many eurozone countries. Urgent measures are needed to give oxygen to the economy and give-back hope to young people: measures that the European Parliament has been calling for since the beginning of the crisis. ]]>gfassinaTue, 14 May 2013 17:23:36 +0200 On behalf of the European Parliament and on my own behalf, I would like to congratulate Giorgio Napolitano as President of the Republic of Italy. I would like to offer the full cooperation of the European Parliament for the important challenges ahead of this second mandate.]]>sgabardTue, 14 May 2013 17:08:45 +0200 The findings of the second report of the European Parliament monitoring mission to Ukraine formed by Pat Cox, former President of the European Parliament, and Aleksander Kwaśniewski, former President of the Republic of Poland, were presented today, 18 April, to the Conference of Presidents. ]]>sgabardThu, 16 May 2013 16:24:35 +0200 Ethiopia is a key EU ally in the Horn of Africa. I greeted the peaceful transition after the death of PM Meles Zenawi last year and paid tribute to Ethiopia's leading diplomatic and security role in the region and in the whole of Africa, especially thanks to its chairmanship of the African Union, its mediating role between Sudan and South Sudan and its support for counter-piracy operation and greater stability in Somalia.]]>gfassinaThu, 16 May 2013 11:58:30 +0200 European Parliament President Martin Schulz will make his first official visit to the Republic of Poland on Thursday, April 18 and Friday, April 19 to participate in the commemorations of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising and to meet senior government and parliamentary officials. On Saturday, he will visit the former Nazi German extermination camp at Oświęcim-Brzezinka (Auschwitz-Birkenau)]]>sgabardThu, 16 May 2013 16:43:53 +0200 European Parliament President Martin Schulz made the following statement after the house voted by a large margin to give its final approval to new capital requirements for banks and a cap on bonuses.]]>sgabardTue, 14 May 2013 17:00:37 +0200 "Yesterday, in Boston, several people lost their lives and many more injured following simultaneous bomb explosions. At a sporting occasion, the Boston marathon - one of the most popular running events in the world - innocent lives have been shattered. The Boston marathon brings people together from all over the world. The city of Boston represents America's strive for freedom like no other.]]>rfreedmanTue, 14 May 2013 16:55:46 +0200 Baroness Margaret Thatcher marked British and European political life. Despite our clear political differences, Margaret Thatcher is a figure of historic significance. Margaret Thatcher at the beginning of her tenure was a committed European, signing and pushing for the single European act which transformed the EU single market. No matter whether one agrees with her policies or not, Margaret Thatcher showed that politics still has the capacity to be a force for change. My thoughts are with her family and friends]]>rfreedmanTue, 14 May 2013 17:53:41 +0200 We, the Speakers of the Parliaments of the countries of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM), meeting in Marseilles for our first summit on 7 April 2013, • concerned at the scale of the challenges of democratic transformation in the southern Mediterranean countries and of the economic and financial crisis affecting the EU Mediterranean countries, and at the risk of insecurity and instability in the Sahel-Saharan region [...]]]>gfassinaMon, 22 Apr 2013 16:43:13 +0200 Respect for fundamental rights of our citizens is one of the strongest building blocks of the European Union. The principle of non-discrimination is one of our core values. Yet, the largest minority group in Europe - the Roma - continues to suffer from social exclusion and be the object of discrimination on a daily basis. ]]>sgabardTue, 14 May 2013 15:42:34 +0200 I wish to deeply thank Presidents Cox and Kwasniewski for their efforts in securing the pardon and release of Yuriy Lutsenko. Presidents Cox and Kwasniewski's commitment, under my tutelage, have ensured that Yuriy Lutsenko is a free man who can enjoy his first night in years with his family. I welcome Yuriy Lutsenko's pardon and release as a positive sign. ]]>rfreedmanThu, 18 Apr 2013 08:49:51 +0200 The fact that people are still dying because of mines is yet another dramatic reminder of the necessity to ban the use and production of mines in all parts of the world. Landmines and cluster munitions are weapons deliberately thought to hit professional military and civilians alike. ]]>sgabardMon, 22 Apr 2013 17:14:23 +0200 Martin Schulz, President of the European Parliament and President-in-Office of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union for the Mediterranean, will welcome Speakers of the Parliaments of the member countries of the Union for the Mediterranean in Marseille on 6 and 7 April. ]]>sgabardMon, 08 Apr 2013 08:10:59 +0200 I welcome the deal for Cyprus, although the details must be fully examined. It has brought us back from the edge. This agreement should allow for Cyprus' public finances and economy to enter a sustainable path. It is especially encouraging that small savers will be protected. I welcome the fact that the deal takes on board the European Parliament's clear call that deposits of less than €100 000 should be excluded from any levy. Cyprus has avoided a catastrophe and financial meltdown and the euro zone has avoided further turmoil. ]]>rfreedmanMon, 25 Mar 2013 14:32:48 +0100 I welcome the resolutions passed today by the Human Rights Council particularly on Myanmar and Syria. I met the President of Myanmar in Brussels a few weeks ago. It is paramount that the Government of Myanmar continues its democratic reforms and addresses the remaining human rights issues. The resolution, which was initiated by the European Union and which was adopted in the Human Rights Council by consensus, will allow us together with the Office of the High Commissioner to assist the Government on this path to democracy. ]]>gfassinaFri, 22 Mar 2013 15:22:25 +0100 On the Cyprus banking issue, the Conference of the Presidents is deeply concerned and takes a position that deposits of less than €100 000 should be exempted from any levy. A fairer and sustainable solution for the Cypriot people must be found. We need a European solution to the Cyprus problem, not an external one. Ordinary people's savings should not be used to bail out the banking sector. ]]>rfreedmanFri, 22 Mar 2013 15:26:54 +0100 The President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz will pay an official visit to Bern, Switzerland on Thursday 21 March 2013. On Friday 22 March, President Schulz will visit the United Nations organisations based in Geneva and deliver a speech at the Jean Monnet Foundation in Lausanne. ]]>rfreedmanFri, 29 Mar 2013 10:09:50 +0100 European Parliament President Martin Schulz made the following statement after the European Parliament and the Council reached an agreement on legislation creating the foundations of the banking union.]]>sgabardFri, 29 Mar 2013 10:26:04 +0100 Tomorrow, Tuesday 19 March, at 9:30 CET, the President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz will attend the inaugural Mass of his Holiness Pope Francis at the Vatican.]]>pvandermaesenThu, 28 Mar 2013 15:06:31 +0100 I congratulate Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio on his election to the papacy. I wish Pope Francis courage and strength. The Pontiff has an opportunity for renewal at a time when the Roman Catholic Church faces numerous and momentous challenges. ]]>gfassinaFri, 22 Mar 2013 11:49:56 +0100 "This important resolution paves the way forward for possible negotiations with the Council on the long-term EU budget 2014-2020. The European Parliament cannot accept the proposal from the Member States without the fulfilment of certain essential conditions. There must be maximum overall flexibility and an ambitious agreement on own resources. The European Parliament also demands a compulsory, legally binding and comprehensive revision of the Multiannual Financial Framework decided by qualified majority in the Council. Parliament will not even start negotiations until all unpaid payment claims for 2012 are covered. These issues are of fundamental importance for the Parliament. The European Parliament will not accept the proposal from the Member States unless there is movement from the Council on all of these issues." ]]>rfreedmanFri, 05 Apr 2013 20:32:32 +0200 On today's proposal by some political groups of the European Parliament to add an additional point to the plenary agenda on Amendments to the Hungarian Constitution, Martin Schulz made the following statement: ]]>rfreedmanThu, 28 Mar 2013 18:07:31 +0100 I regret that the Hungarian Parliament adopted today an amendment to the Constitution despite serious doubts that it may weaken democratic standards in the country. ]]>rfreedmanTue, 12 Mar 2013 15:47:07 +0100 There must be no let-up in the fight for gender equality, and instruments must be created to combat female genital mutilation, within and outside the EU, urged President Schulz in his opening address. He also condemned the Islamist terror group "Ansaru" for killing seven hostages in Nigeria. ]]>rfreedmanFri, 22 Mar 2013 16:03:09 +0100 I salute the Maltese people who have participated in one of the most active democratic elections in Europe with over 93% voting turnout. I congratulate the Labour Party and my highly regarded former colleague Joseph Muscat for winning the trust of the Maltese people in these elections. ]]>rfreedmanSun, 10 Mar 2013 16:14:14 +0100 There are concerns in the European Parliament about recent proposals to amend the Hungarian constitution. I conveyed this message to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán in a telephone conversation on Friday. I recommended to the Prime Minister to urgently ask the Venice Commission of the Council of Europe for its Opinion before the Hungarian Parliament votes on those amendments. ]]>rfreedmanSat, 09 Mar 2013 10:00:56 +0100 Equality of women and men is a fundamental value of the European Union and is vital to economic growth, prosperity and competitiveness. However, today such equality only exists on paper. Women are paid 16.2% less than men for the same work. Women have been hit harder by the economic crisis through higher unemployment and more insecure jobs. Gender-based violence against women remains shockingly pervasive, with a heavy cost to individuals, families and society at large. Women are still largely underrepresented in political and economic decision-making. ]]>gfassinaThu, 28 Mar 2013 19:10:40 +0100 "I deeply regret the fact that the Council has not been able to reach agreement on CRD IV. The European Parliament negotiators consider that an agreement has been reached on all aspects of the legislation including on bankers' bonuses. The cap on bonuses will make the economic system much fairer and safer. ]]>rfreedmanThu, 28 Mar 2013 17:52:09 +0100 I welcome the agreement on new capital requirements for banks. I thank the rapporteurs Othmar Karas, Udo Bullman, Sharon Bowles and Philippe Lamberts and Vicky Ford for their hard work. Their skill and commitment allowed the European Parliament to significantly improve the planned legislation, notably by limiting bonuses for bankers.The new rules will make the banking system safer, more stable and transparent. They will help to avert the risk of a repeat of the disastrous financial crisis that hit the global economy in 2008, throwing millions into poverty and unemployment. ]]>charlotte.durietz@europarl.europa.euThu, 28 Mar 2013 15:09:13 +0100 I congratulate Mr Anastasiades for winning the Presidential elections. Cyprus faces today difficult challenges, important both for the country and for the whole EU, such as the need for reforms for economic sustainability and social cohesion, the relations with Turkey and the situation of the two parts of the island.]]>rfreedmanFri, 22 Mar 2013 16:10:07 +0100 "I have been informed of the car crash involving Alexander Alvaro, I am deeply shocked by the horrific accident. On behalf of the European Parliament and his colleagues, I wish him a speedy and full recovery. All my thoughts and hopes are with my good friend and close colleague. ]]>rfreedmanSat, 23 Feb 2013 18:36:06 +0100 I particular welcome this proposed agreement and pay tribute to Parliament's rapporteurs, the European Commission services and the Cypriot and Irish Presidencies of the Council. These new laws are a key element in building stronger economic governance for the euro area and boost the EU's armour against further economic crises. ]]>rfreedmanThu, 28 Mar 2013 20:19:46 +0100 Colombia is a key ally for the European Union' said Mr Schulz, who highlighted the role that Colombia plays in the region and added that the EU should view transatlantic relations not simply as relations between Europe and the United States, but also with the countries of Latin America.]]>rfreedmanWed, 27 Feb 2013 14:56:03 +0100 "The European Parliament has been a strong supporter of an ambitious transatlantic market project and I debated the need for the agreement with Vice-President Biden in November last year in Washington. I therefore welcome the announcement by President Obama in his State of the Union address. ]]>rfreedmanWed, 27 Feb 2013 17:54:12 +0100 Commenting on the results of the Presidential elections in the Czech Republic, European Parliament President Martin Schulz said: I congratulate Miloš Zeman on winning the Presidential elections in the Czech Republic, becoming the third Head of State since 1993.]]>rfreedmanTue, 05 Feb 2013 07:58:30 +0100 The President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz will hold at 10:00am on Friday 25 January, a press conference on the prospects of the European Parliament and the European Union in 2013.]]>gfassinaTue, 05 Feb 2013 07:50:28 +0100 This was an inward looking speech that does not reflect European reality and will not impress many of the UK's European partners. The speech was more about domestic politics reflecting concerns of Eurosceptic elements of the Conservative Party.]]>gfassinaTue, 05 Feb 2013 08:01:40 +0100 2013 - which will see the adoption of a new constitution, elections and a continuing economic recovery - will be a defining year, not only for Tunisia but for the region as a whole.]]>gfassinaWed, 16 Jan 2013 10:15:33 +0100 On Friday, 11 January 2013, the President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz will pay his first official visit to Portugal. ]]>gfassinaFri, 11 Jan 2013 14:44:14 +0100 The President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz will pay an official visit to Tunisia on 18 and 19 December to re-affirm the support of the European Parliament to the ongoing democratic reforms in the country. The President will also discuss the state of EU-Tunisia relations and regional issues of mutual interest with all the relevant political and social interlocutors.]]>gfassinaMon, 17 Dec 2012 11:35:43 +0100 Six billion Euros to pay bills in 2012, priority for growth and jobs in next year's budget and a strategy for dealing with payment shortfalls in 2013 - these are the main parts of the budget package formally adopted by Parliament on Wednesday.]]>gfassinaWed, 12 Dec 2012 21:03:06 +0100 By awarding the Sakharov Prize to two Iranian activists, lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh and film director Jafar Panahi, the European Parliament acknowledges their plight and their outstanding efforts in their incessant struggle for human dignity, fundamental freedoms and political change in Iran, said President Martin Schulz at the Sakharov Prize award ceremony on Wednesday in Strasbourg. ]]>gfassinaWed, 12 Dec 2012 14:55:06 +0100 Congratulations! This morning you woke up a Nobel Peace Prize laureate. The 2012 prize was presented to the EU in Oslo on Monday. The European Parliament believes the honour belongs to everyone, so on Wednesday morning it is holding a special ceremony in Strasbourg to symbolically hand over the prize to the people of Europe. EP president Martin Schulz said the EU came about thanks to its citizens: "You can't achieve something in a society when the people do not stand behind the project." ]]>rfreedmanTue, 08 Jan 2013 12:50:15 +0100 Martin Schulz, President of the European Parliament, welcomed today's votes of the European Parliament in favour of a Free Trade Agreement between the EU, Colombia, Peru, and an Association agreement with Central America.]]>sgabardThu, 10 Jan 2013 18:21:38 +0100 The drafts for joint statements regarding payments, agreed by the three institutions in trialogue, must be strengthened by the signatures of the Presidents of the three institutions. Bills for the budget year 2012 cannot be financed through shifting within the already underfinanced budget 2013, but must be provided by the Member States additionally. The necessary guarantees for this must be delivered at the highest levels of the institutions; there is no margin left for interpretation.]]>gfassinaFri, 29 Mar 2013 10:03:33 +0100 After extensive discussions with the Chairman of the Budget Committee, Alain Lamassoure, and after consulting the political groups, there can be no talk of an agreement on the EU budget 2013 at this stage. ]]>gfassinaFri, 30 Nov 2012 16:35:37 +0100 In the last 10 years, tangible and encouraging gains have been made in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Complacency could now become one of the biggest threats in the struggle against HIV/AIDS. We need to renew our political, scientific and social commitment in order to fully halt the spread of the virus, increase awareness, provide universal access to antiretroviral therapy for people living with HIV/AIDS and end all forms of discrimination. In 2011 alone, more than 1.5 million people died because of HIV/AIDS, 34 million still suffer from HIV/AIDS and 2.5 were newly affected. The task in front of us is still enormous. ]]>gfassinaTue, 08 Jan 2013 14:00:57 +0100 The European Parliament firmly believes that peaceful and non-violent means are the only way to achieve a just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians. The European Parliament has supported Palestine's bid to become a UN non-member observer in its latest resolution, and considers this an important step in making Palestinian claims more visible, stronger and more effective. ]]>gfassinaTue, 08 Jan 2013 14:07:20 +0100 Ahead of the Irish Presidency of the EU Councilwhich begins in January 2013, EP President Martin Schulz and leaders of the political groups in the European Parliament will be in Dublin on Thursday and Friday to meet the Taoiseach and the Irish government.]]>rfreedmanTue, 08 Jan 2013 14:19:29 +0100 It is with great consternation that I have heard the news of the tragic fire in Titisee-Neustadt in Germany, whereby 14 people were killed and more wounded. We are all deeply shocked and stunned by this tragedy. ]]>gfassinaWed, 28 Nov 2012 17:51:28 +0100 European Parliament President Martin Schulz will meet with the Vice-President of the United States, Joe Biden, on his first visit to the United States of America. The visit starts today Monday 26 November and lasts until Wednesday 28 November 2012.]]>rfreedmanTue, 27 Nov 2012 16:28:29 +0100 MEPs from across the political spectrum deplored the escalation of violence in Gaza in recent days during a lively debate on 21 November and welcomed news of an immediate ceasefire that could prove to be a first step towards addressing the underlying problems in the relations between Israel and Palestinians. MEPs will vote on a resolution on the situation in Gaza on 22 November.]]>gfassinaWed, 28 Nov 2012 18:26:23 +0100 Following the meeting of the Bureau of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union for the Mediterranean the following declaration on Syria has been adopted.]]>rfreedmanThu, 22 Nov 2012 22:01:51 +0100 President Schulz welcomed the end of a 67-day hunger strike by Kurds held in Turkish prisons, and condemned the escalation of violence between Israel and Hamas, in his opening of the November session. ]]>gfassinaFri, 23 Nov 2012 00:51:51 +0100 I condemn the escalation of violence between Hamas and Israel. I call on both parts to show the maximum restraint and to avoid any further loss of life. Civilians on both sides are paying the highest price in this vicious circle of attacks and retaliations. Hostilities should stop immediately. ]]>gfassinaFri, 16 Nov 2012 10:15:34 +0100 EP negotiators will not attend the meeting with Council on the budget 2013 scheduled for tonight, because there is no agreement among the member states about a supplementary budget for the current year. These funds are needed for the European Union to respect its legal obligations, i.e. to pay for bills incurred for goods, works and services delivered. ]]>rfreedmanThu, 15 Nov 2012 19:03:23 +0100 I follow with concern the hunger strike of jailed Kurdish prisoners, among them elected officials, and of Members of Parliament in Turkey. My immediate concern is for the health of those undertaking this desperate non-violent action. I am confident that Turkish authorities are doing their utmost to provide the best medical assistance to all the inmates and protesters. ]]>gfassinaThu, 15 Nov 2012 14:15:06 +0100 Playing political games with the possibility for people to recover from a terrible catastrophe is something the European Parliament cannot accept. The cynical hesitation from some Member States during the budget negotiations last Friday, which resulted in the blocking of solidarity funds for the earthquake in Italy, go against the direction of the fundamental values of the EU.]]>charlotte.durietz@europarl.europa.euThu, 15 Nov 2012 19:07:33 +0100 On behalf of the European Parliament, I congratulate Barack Obama on being re-elected as President of the United States of America. The European Parliament looks forward to building on our strong and comprehensive transatlantic relationship with President Obama. What unites the European Union and the United States of America is far greater than what divides us. The EU and the US are the world's closest allies: our partnership is based on a wide range of common values and shared interests: freedom, democracy, respect for international law, the rule of law and human rights. These common shared values form the fundamental basis of our relationship. ]]>rfreedmanThu, 15 Nov 2012 18:08:29 +0100 These elections were of critical importance for the future direction of Ukraine and for relations between Kyiv and the European Union. Noting preliminary conclusions of international observers from OSCE/ODIHR mission, I regret that many shortcomings marred the ballot. I am concerned by the lack of a level playing field among political forces caused, among other reasons, by the abuse of administrative resources. ]]>gfassinaWed, 07 Nov 2012 07:27:38 +0100 The President of the European Parliament, Martin Schulz, will pay an official visit to Romania on Tuesday 30 October, and Wednesday, 31 October. President Schulz will meet with the highest Romanian officials, address parliament and hold a debate with students.]]>gfassinaTue, 30 Oct 2012 16:22:06 +0100 Two Iranian activists, lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh and film director Jafar Panahi, are this year's joint winners of the European Parliament Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought. They were chosen by President Schulz and political group leaders on Friday morning. ]]>gfassinaMon, 29 Oct 2012 12:50:59 +0100 The shooting of Malala Yousafzai, a 14 year-old Pakistani girl who dared to advocate education for girls, was strongly condemned by EP President Martin Schulz on Monday. Mr Schulz wished her a swift recovery in the UK and hoped her example would inspire young women everywhere. He also briefed MEPs on the investigation into cracks in the roof beams of the Brussels plenary chamber, which had led to the cancellation of the November session there. ]]>rfreedmanMon, 29 Oct 2012 14:44:27 +0100 I offer our solidarity to the Lebanese people and underline that a peaceful and stable Lebanon is crucial not only for the Lebanese people but for the wider region.]]>gfassinaTue, 23 Oct 2012 19:19:01 +0200 We held a constructive meeting focussing on progress towards setting up a comprehensive banking union for the eurozone and the EU's multiannual financial framework. On banking union, we agreed that there was need for a supervisory system to be set up as quickly as possible. ]]>rfreedmanTue, 23 Oct 2012 19:20:47 +0200 Although the fight against hunger has considerably reduced the number of people suffering from hunger since 1990, some 870 million people are still under-nourished today. Food insecurity will become an ever-increasing challenge and a possible source of conflict as we are faced with a growing world population, unequal access to water, rising temperatures and more extreme weather. ]]>gfassinaMon, 22 Oct 2012 17:48:07 +0200 "It is a great honour that the EU has been awarded this year's Nobel Peace Prize. This Nobel Peace Prize is for all EU citizens. We in the European Parliament are deeply touched. The European Union has reunified the continent through peaceful means and brought arch enemies together. This historic act of reunification has been rightfully recognised. ]]>rfreedmanThu, 06 Dec 2012 10:47:15 +0100 Today, we are faced with a deep economic and social crisis, both in Israel and in Europe. We exchanged experiences on the social protests movements in Israel and the parts of the European Union. The protests are about the impossible cost of living and in Israel the cost of housing in particular. The gap between the rich and the poor has been growing during the crisis, in Europe. But also in Israel, despite its impressive GDP figures, 20 percent of Israelis live under the poverty line. ]]>rfreedmanFri, 19 Oct 2012 09:11:10 +0200 The President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz will pay an official visit to the Austria on Thursday 11 October and Friday 12 October. EP President Schulz will hold meetings with Austria's key politicians, including President Heinz Fischer, Chancellor Werner Faymann and the President of the Austrian National Council Barbara Prammer. He will also speak to the main EU Committee of the National Council, visit an EU funded project and take part in a debate on Europe. ]]>charlotte.durietz@europarl.europa.euMon, 22 Oct 2012 17:11:37 +0200 Mr Ferzat has managed with his piercing irony and his sharp pencil to give a fatal blow to the credibility of the al-Assad's regime and his circle. He has laid bare the nature of a regime which is a mixture of paranoia, violence and blind self-interest. ]]>gfassinaThu, 11 Oct 2012 17:23:16 +0200 Opposition to the death penalty is one of the strongest unifying values among the citizens of the European Union. No matter how heinous a crime can be, it cannot be put right with another death. The strong stance of European citizens against the death penalty is anchored on the firm conviction that it does not provide, in any circumstance, for just punishment, deterrence or redress. ]]>gfassinaMon, 22 Oct 2012 17:43:30 +0200 The Financial Transaction Tax is matter of justice and I am pleased it is receiving enough support from the Member States to go forward under enhanced cooperation. The European Parliament has been calling for and supporting the FTT for more than two years and I am satisfied it will soon see the light of day with up to 11 countries ready to press ahead.]]>rfreedmanMon, 22 Oct 2012 17:40:08 +0200 The Laureates of the Sakharov Prize 2011, represented by Ms Asmaa Mahfouz (Egypt), Mr Ahmed El-Senussi (Libya) and Mr Ali Ferzat (Syria), will join together with the winner of the European Book Prize 2011, the German writer Maxim Leo, to share their experiences, memories and hopes for freedom and democracy, in yesterday's East Germany, today's Egypt and Libya and the hopes for the Syria of tomorrow.]]>gfassinaMon, 22 Oct 2012 17:35:56 +0200 I have received over 40.000 letters since last Friday. As I cannot answer personally to all of them, I make public the content of the letter I have sent to those Members of the European Parliament who wrote to me on this issue.]]>charlotte.durietz@europarl.europa.euMon, 22 Oct 2012 17:29:02 +0200 I congratulate Georgia on conducting free, competitive and peaceful elections, despite the often tense and polarising electoral campaign. Despite certain procedural shortcomings, these elections are a sign of Georgia's growing political and democratic maturity.]]>gfassinaMon, 22 Oct 2012 17:26:42 +0200 The President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz will pay an official visit to the Republic of Ireland on Wednesday 3 October and Thursday 4 October 2012. EP President Schulz will hold meetings with Ireland's key politicians, will also visit EU funded projects, and take part in a debate at the University College Dublin. Ireland takes on the six month rotating presidency of the EU Council on 1 January 2013, the date which also marks Ireland's 40 years in the EU. ]]>rfreedmanMon, 22 Oct 2012 17:24:39 +0200 The death of Eric Hobsbawm is very sad news. He was a man of exceptional quality and of extraordinary lucidity. His passing is a great loss for all generations that have been influenced by his work]]>rfreedmanMon, 22 Oct 2012 17:19:11 +0200 Boris Sprem, a man of high integrity, was a committed European and defender of democracy and parliamentarism. I regret he could not live to see his country formally joining the European Union. His death is a big loss for Croatia. ]]>gfassinaMon, 22 Oct 2012 17:17:05 +0200 I deeply regret that parliamentary elections in Belarus have yet again failed to meet international standards of fair and transparent polls. With opposition leaders remaining imprisoned, with some opposition candidates denied registration, with the people's voice silenced, it was a mockery of a democratic ballot.]]>rfreedmanWed, 26 Sep 2012 14:06:57 +0200 The President of the European Parliament, Martin Schulz, will pay a one-day official visit to Slovakia on Tuesday (18 September). President Schulz will meet with the highest Slovak officials: President Ivan Gašparovič and Prime Minister Roberto Fico. During the visit, the president will also address the National Council and meet university students and visit an EU-financed project.]]>charlotte.durietz@europarl.europa.euWed, 26 Sep 2012 14:05:32 +0200 Commenting on the recent string of violent attacks against US and EU diplomatic missions around the world and on NATO's Camp Bastion in Afghanistan, the President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz stated: "I strongly condemn this unjustified violence and those who fuel it.I strongly condemn the use of religion to incite hatred and violence. I strongly criticise any attempt to ridicule Islam.]]>charlotte.durietz@europarl.europa.euThu, 27 Sep 2012 12:43:17 +0200 As we prepare to mark International Day of Democracy on 15 September, we are drawn to reflect on the state of democracy worldwide and within Europe. The renewed democratic momentum, which we have witnessed in the course of this past year, has confirmed what we in the European Parliament have always held to be true: People around the world want to live in a democracy. They want to choose their government, be able to express their opinions, and have opportunities to participate in economic and political life. They want elected representatives that hold those in power to account. They want a framework that ensures the rule of law and justice for all. ]]>rfreedmanWed, 26 Sep 2012 14:02:03 +0200 The result of the election in the Netherlands is a great result for Europe. The mainstream pro-European voices of reason have been well supported and the more isolationist anti-EU parties have been largely rejected by Dutch voters. The result is a sign of confidence in Europe and demonstrates that the constructive approach of the main parties in the Netherlands towards the EU is the right way forward.]]>rfreedmanThu, 27 Sep 2012 12:40:01 +0200 I warmly welcome this proposal on European political parties and European political foundations. The European Parliament has long called for a full European legal statute for European political parties and foundations.]]>gfassinaWed, 26 Sep 2012 11:55:21 +0200 I strongly condemn the attack against the US consulate in Benghazi in which four US officials, including the US ambassador to Libya Christopher Stevens, lost their lives. The US diplomat and his staff were in Libya to help the country to return to peace, stability and prosperity. I call on the Libyan authorities to do their utmost to find and bring to justice the perpetrators of this crime. ]]>gfassinaWed, 26 Sep 2012 11:59:49 +0200 Today the world is looking at Europe not least the Karlsruhe Constitutional Court, we have reached a decisive moment. Recent developments in the European Union have been of great concern. We have seen a deparliamentarisation of Europe.]]>gfassinaWed, 03 Oct 2012 15:07:58 +0200 MEPs must use the opportunity Commission President Barroso's State of the Union address "to make the position of this house and its political groups clear" urged President Schulz. He held a minute's silence for late MEPs Jiří Havel, Edith Mastenbroek, Alex Falconer and Paddy Lane, and for Sakharov Prize winner Oswaldo Paya. He urged Belarus to reform, and Gambia to suspend the death penalty. Finally, he congratulated Stavros Lambrinidis on becoming the first EU Human Rights Representative. ]]>rfreedmanTue, 11 Sep 2012 11:51:46 +0200 We observe with great concern the continued abuse of human rights, the rule of law and democratic values in Belarus. I am deeply worried by recent events in the country, notably the travel ban on some opposition leaders and human rights defenders, laws that expand the powers of the KGB and the recent expulsion of the Swedish ambassador. ]]>gfassinaTue, 11 Sep 2012 11:57:44 +0200 I welcome the European Central Bank's decision to launch a programme of sovereign bond purchases under strict conditionality. This courageous decision is a major step towards resolving the sovereign debt crisis and restoring the stability of the euro zone. ]]>gfassinaTue, 11 Sep 2012 12:03:05 +0200 The convention on the transfer of sentenced people should not be abused for political purpose. I am disturbed by what appears to be a politically motivated pardon of Mr Safarov by the President of Azerbaijan. At the same time, I urge Azerbaijan and Armenia to avoid any moves and statements that might exacerbate the situation.]]>rfreedmanTue, 11 Sep 2012 12:06:30 +0200 The President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz will participate in a "Web Chat" on Wednesday 5 September 2012 at 2pm (CET) until 2.45pm (CET). The chat will take place on the Facebook page of the European Parliament (see links below).]]>rfreedmanTue, 11 Sep 2012 12:10:21 +0200 The efforts made by the Italians themselves and the reforms implemented by the Italian Government over the last year have been instrumental in halting the spread of the crisis in Europe. What both Italy and the EU need now is a major step forward in the process of political, fiscal and financial integration in order to put an end to the current downward spiral, boost growth and create new jobs, for young people in particular ]]>gfassinaTue, 11 Sep 2012 12:14:44 +0200 A family bereavement will prevent the President of the European Parliament, Martin Schulz, from being present tomorrow, Wednesday, 22 August, at the Rimini Meeting, where he was due to take part in a debate on the topic of ‘Europe: one, none, one hundred thousand’.]]>sgabardTue, 11 Sep 2012 12:17:01 +0200 I know Stavros very well and I am confident that his experience, education, personality and intelligence will serve the EU well in its fight to protect and promote human rights worldwide. He is the right man for the job. ]]>gfassinaTue, 11 Sep 2012 12:18:40 +0200 The loss of Oswaldo Payá in Cuba is sad news for all those who believe and fight for freedom and democracy in the world. The European Parliament awarded him with the Sakharov Prize for freedom of thought in 2002, to acknowledge his work for the Varela Project - a campaign to support a referendum in favour of fundamental freedoms and civil rights in Cuba. ]]>gfassinaTue, 11 Sep 2012 12:21:25 +0200 I condemn this heinous and cowardly attack on innocent holidaymakers at Burgas airport in Bulgaria. On behalf of the European Parliament, I offer my condolences to the family and friends of the victims and wish those injured a speedy recovery. ]]>rfreedmanWed, 25 Jul 2012 14:07:07 +0200 The Commission highlighted today a number of shortcomings which Romania must tackle to fully meet European Union standards. The Commission has expressed concern over recent political developments in the country. The Commission also presented recommendations for Romania to remedy the areas of concern. I expect the Romanian government to immediately follow those recommendations. ]]>rfreedmanWed, 18 Jul 2012 17:31:45 +0200 I urge all countries which have not yet signed and ratified the Rome Statute to do so without delay and to show a genuine commitment to uphold and support the international justice and the rule of law they preach. ]]>gfassinaTue, 31 Jul 2012 11:55:13 +0200 The President of the European Parliament, Martin Schulz, accompanied by a delegation of senior MEPs, will travel to Paris from 12 to 14 July for official meetings with the French authorities. At the invitation of President François Hollande he will attend the ceremonies to mark French National Day.]]>gfassinaWed, 11 Jul 2012 17:27:13 +0200 We are monitoring the events in Romania very closely. We seem to be witnessing a political fight of a surprising intensity between two irreconcilable camps. Should there be any breaches of European rules and standards, the European Commission should take action immediately. We are a Union of shared values and legal standards, which must be respected by all of its members without exception. It is our duty to act if these are violated. ]]>gfassinaWed, 11 Jul 2012 17:23:07 +0200 I congratulate the Libyan people for their remarkable democratic performance last Saturday. These elections are a milestone in Libya's democratisation process. After 42 years of repression and dictatorship, Libyan citizens have participated in these historic elections in a pluralist, peaceful and festive atmosphere, barring some isolated accidents. ]]>gfassinaThu, 12 Jul 2012 17:49:03 +0200 I learned with great sadness about the devastating floods in the Krasnodar territories, which killed so many people and caused so much material damage.]]>gfassinaWed, 11 Jul 2012 17:14:26 +0200 I congratulate the Algerian people on reaching this important milestone. Algeria has overcome many challenges and hurdles in its first 50 years since independence. I would like to pay tribute to Algerian citizens who have never bowed when faced with violence and terrorism: they have withstood them with remarkable unity, dignity and courage. ]]>gfassinaThu, 12 Jul 2012 17:51:31 +0200 The vote against ACTA was not one against the protection of intellectual property. On the contrary - the European Parliament staunchly supports the fight against piracy and counterfeiting, which harm European companies and pose a threat to consumer health and European jobs. ]]>gfassinaMon, 09 Jul 2012 16:39:01 +0200 The three key European institutions - the Commission, the European Parliament and the Council - commit themselves to the closest possible cooperation during the Cyprus Presidency, while respecting the competences and prerogatives enshrined in the treaties.]]>gfassinaThu, 12 Jul 2012 14:41:36 +0200 Parliament postponed its scrutiny of a draft EU patent law, in a surprise vote prompted by the Council's last-minute wish to delete three key articles. The rapporteurs argued that this would "emasculate" the proposal. President Martin Schulz voiced Parliament's concern at the dismissal of Paraguay's directly elected President Fernando Lugo and announced that it would send a delegation to investigate. ]]>rfreedmanTue, 03 Jul 2012 09:42:17 +0200 I warmly welcome the adoption of the EU Strategic Framework on Human Rights and Democracy and the Human Rights Action Plan which also reflect several long-standing demands of the European Parliament. This should give a welcome boost to the ambition, efficiency and accountability of the EU's policy on protecting and promoting human rights and democracy. ]]>gfassinaTue, 03 Jul 2012 12:03:23 +0200 The presidential elections in Egypt were a milestone in the democratic process initiated last year by protests in Tahrir Square. I welcome the democratic and fair review of the vote, stating the victory of Mohamed Morsi. I congratulate the new leadership of Egypt. I hope the new President will adopt an inclusive approach so as to represent all the Egyptians, regardless of their religious or cultural background. ]]>gfassinaTue, 03 Jul 2012 12:06:49 +0200 As the European Championships in Poland and Ukraine reach the final stages, Martin Schulz, the president of the European Parliament, has picked his selection of the best players in the tournament so far - "The President's XI / Euro 2012 Dream-Team". To find out more, read Mr Schulz's comments on his choice and the tournament. ]]>rfreedmanTue, 03 Jul 2012 11:54:11 +0200 I welcome the results of the general elections in Greece. The results show a broad and clear support in favour of Greece staying in the euro zone. I salute the efforts of the Greek people to overcome the crisis. They have made great sacrifices. I hope the burden of the reforms will be spread more equally to achieve greater social justice. ]]>rfreedmanTue, 26 Jun 2012 16:53:39 +0200 The Conference of Presidents, (leaders of political groups and the President of the European Parliament) after an intensive debate, decided today in Strasbourg that the European Parliament would suspend its cooperation with the Council on the following five dossiers until a satisfactory outcome is achieved on Schengen governance.]]>gfassinaTue, 26 Jun 2012 15:14:54 +0200 The European Parliament is serious about assisting democratic transition in post Arab Spring countries. I welcome the fact that this report has been brought through the ordinary legislative procedure at record speed. For democracy to succeed in the region, we need a real prospect of shared prosperity. In the difficult economic juncture Europe is facing, all forces, institutions and available instruments must be mobilised to make the transition successful. ]]>gfassinaThu, 22 Nov 2012 19:15:05 +0100 Parliament will vigorously fight the plan, agreed by Home Affairs Ministers on 7 June, to change the legal basis for evaluating the working of the Schengen visa-free area, pledged President Martin Schulz in his opening speech. The switch was sharply criticized by almost all political groups, as an attack on EU citizens' basic rights. He also warned Serbia's President Tomislav Nikolic against rewriting history and drew attention to the trials of Sakharov prizewinners Layla Zana and Asmaa Mahfouz.]]>rfreedmanThu, 14 Jun 2012 11:53:21 +0200 The European Parliament is deeply disappointed at the unilateral and counterproductive behaviour of the Justice and Home Affairs Council today. This decision disrespects Parliament's powers and is a step in the wrong direction on Schengen. This unnecessary power game will not achieve the outcome our citizens expect from the Union. ]]>rfreedmanThu, 14 Jun 2012 12:09:59 +0200 Re-launching Euro-Mediterranean relations and improving the effectiveness of the Union for the Mediterranean will be at the centre of a two-day working session of the Bureau of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union for the Mediterranean (PA UfM) with the participation of the European Commission, the Secretariat of the Union for the Mediterranean, the European Investment Bank and the Anna Lindh Foundation. ]]>gfassinaTue, 12 Jun 2012 11:56:12 +0200 Pat Cox, former European Parliament President, and Aleksander Kwasniewski, former President of Poland, will monitor court proceedings involving imprisoned former Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko on behalf of the European Parliament (EP), EP President Martin Schulz said on Wednesday. ]]>gfassinaThu, 14 Jun 2012 12:12:13 +0200 The EP Conference of Presidents met the President of Cyprus Demetris Christofias and the members of his government on Thursday to discuss the priorities and challenges of the incoming Cyprus presidency of the Council of the European Union. During the meeting the Conference of Presidents was briefed on the priorities of the Cyprus Presidency and outlined EP expectations expressing at the same time their full support and cooperation for a successful presidency. ]]>gfassinaTue, 12 Jun 2012 11:38:26 +0200 I welcome the positive vote of the Irish people in the referendum on the Fiscal Compact Treaty. This is an important day for Ireland and for the European Union. The Yes vote sends an important signal of Ireland's commitment to the euro zone and to the EU more broadly. We must also listen to the concerns of those who voted No. The European Union is based on the principles of solidarity and responsibility, and the Fiscal Compact is part of that. ]]>rfreedmanTue, 12 Jun 2012 11:36:07 +0200 İstanbul Bilgi University conferred upon Martin Schulz, the President of the European Parliament, an Honorary Doctorate in Political Science, on May 29, 2012. The ceremony took place in the Museum of Contemporary Arts at the Santral Campus, with the participation of Egemen Bağış, the Minister for European Affairs and Chief Negotiator, leading names from Academia, civil society, business, politics, and students.]]>charlotte.durietz@europarl.europa.euTue, 12 Jun 2012 11:27:28 +0200 On behalf of the European Parliament, I condemn the Syrian regime for the abhorrent massacre in Houla. Our thoughts and condolences go to the families of the victims - many of whom are young children.]]>rfreedmanFri, 01 Jun 2012 13:33:31 +0200 The President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz will pay a two-day official visit to Turkey on Monday and Tuesday (28 - 29 May). President Schulz will meet with the highest Turkish officials: President Gül, Prime Minister Erdoğan and Speaker Çiçek. ]]>gfassinaFri, 01 Jun 2012 13:31:44 +0200 Parliament's contempt for the perpetrators of the brutal bombing of a school in Brindisi, and its sympathy for the victims and their families, was voiced by President Martin Schulz in his opening of the May session on Monday. Mr Schulz also conveyed Parliament's sympathy to victims of the Emilia-Romagna earthquake]]>rfreedmanWed, 23 May 2012 11:43:02 +0200 I congratulate Mr Nikolić on his election as Serbia's new president. I am particularly glad that both parliamentary and presidential elections on 6 May and 20 May were fair and peaceful. Those elections came at a crucial time, both for Serbia and the European Union. Growing unemployment and poverty is undermining faith in the European project, giving rise to egoism and nationalism across the continent. ]]>rfreedmanTue, 05 Jun 2012 16:33:51 +0200 The President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz will pay a working visit to Athens this Friday 18 May 2012, to meet with Greek political party leaders and civil society representatives including youth groups and pensioners' representatives. This is the second visit to Athens by President Schulz. The first took place on 28 February 2012. ]]>charlotte.durietz@europarl.europa.euTue, 05 Jun 2012 16:29:05 +0200 After an intensive, honest and constructive exchange, we came to common conclusions. Prime Minister Azarov answered positively to my two proposals. I asked the Ukrainian government to accept that the European Parliament send a group of doctors [...] to Ukraine to ensure a full and independent medical treatment of Ms Tymoshenko. This should be done with the personal agreement of Ms Tymoshenko and in consultation with the Ukrainian side. ]]>gfassinaFri, 25 May 2012 12:25:20 +0200 I welcome the new momentum worldwide in the debate for the protection, recognition and advancement of civil rights for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender persons. I welcome the fact that this year's theme for the international day is youth and education: bullying against homosexuals, bisexual and transgender people, especially in their youth, can be profoundly traumatising. Europe's core values of tolerance and mutual respect must constitute the defence against all forms of discrimination and harassment against LGBT persons. ]]>gfassinaTue, 05 Jun 2012 16:25:04 +0200 I congratulate Wolfgang Schäuble for the honour of receiving such an important award. The Charlemagne Prize honours the long years and tireless efforts of a convinced European to make the European Union more effective, more democratic and more understandable for citizens - even sometimes in the face of opposition from political allies. ]]>rfreedmanWed, 16 May 2012 15:52:01 +0200 These elections mark a new stage in Algeria's democratisation process, but more ambitious, more inclusive and further‑reaching reforms are needed. The onus is now on the new National Parliamentary Assembly and other Algerian institutions to pay heed to the aspirations of all Algerians, both those who voted and those who chose not to.]]>gfassinaWed, 16 May 2012 15:44:59 +0200 It fills me with pride that an ever increasing number of European citizens contribute to sustainable development by demanding Fair Trade products. Data suggests that last year the value of Fair trade products in the EU surpassed the 3 billion Euros mark for the very first time and this is largely due to the over 100.000 dedicated volunteers who form the backbone of the Fair Trade movement in Europe.]]>gfassinaTue, 15 May 2012 15:00:51 +0200 Thanks to its increased power in the oversight of international agreements following the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty, the European Parliament will ensure that the EU commercial and foreign policy interests match with its core values of human rights, democracy and a free society. This resolution serves as a valid blueprint for the strengthening of Euro-Mediterranean economic and commercial relations following the Arab Spring. It stands as a proof of the European Parliament's coherence and genuine commitment in deepening cooperation between the two shores of the Mediterranean. The end-goal remains the creation of a functioning and inclusive Euro-Med Free Trade Area. ]]>gfassinaTue, 15 May 2012 15:08:17 +0200 This was the first ever visit of a Burma/Myanmar parliament delegation to the European Parliament, following my personal invitation. It served the triple purpose of increasing mutual confidence, giving recognition to the Burmese leadership for the reforms carried out so far and to discuss the steps ahead in EU-Burma/Myanmar relations.]]>gfassinaTue, 15 May 2012 18:10:55 +0200 President Schulz condemned the growing intimidation of human rights activists in Bahrain and Egypt, and paid a posthumous tribute to journalist and MEP Miguel Portas, in his opening address at the Brussels mini-session on Wednesday. ]]>rfreedmanThu, 10 May 2012 16:22:32 +0200 The result of the general elections in Greece needs to be calmly analysed to find out what is feasible. The outcome of the vote does not merit any overreaction. ]]>rfreedmanFri, 11 May 2012 15:30:41 +0200 "Congratulations to François Hollande. Now it's time for a change of direction in Europe", said Martin Schulz, president of the European Parliament, following the results of Presidential elections in France. "On top of fiscal consolidation, which is necessary, the EU is now ready for a growth policy, which is what the European Parliament has been calling for for a long time". ]]>rfreedmanThu, 10 May 2012 15:10:17 +0200 Press freedom is never achieved once and for all: it is something that must be nourished and fought for every day. Threats to this fragile liberty never disappear, they just become more subtle; thus the need for an ever stronger vigilance by civil society and a sounder regulatory framework to safeguard access and pluralism.]]>gfassinaThu, 10 May 2012 15:18:00 +0200 The President of the European Parliament and the Parliamentary Assembly of the UfM (AP-UFM), Martin Schulz, and Secretary General Sijilmassi, highlight the importance of promoting projects that foster job creation and socio-economic development in the Mediterranean regions. ]]>gfassinaThu, 10 May 2012 15:04:18 +0200 I want the debate on ACTA to be open and transparent. Citizens' opinions and concerns have to be listened to when taking decisions on issues affecting their daily lives. Decisions taken behind closed doors do not contribute to regaining people's trust in the EU. The European Parliament takes seriously citizens' participation in the debate. The almost 2.5 million signatures in the petition we received on ACTA is a very welcome sign of involvement and interest. ]]>gfassinaThu, 26 Apr 2012 18:03:31 +0200 The brinksmanship between Sudan and South Sudan risks trapping the two sides in a logic of war from which it will be increasingly more difficult to escape. The vicious circle of extreme and belligerent declarations makes a ceasefire more difficult to achieve. It moves us every day a step forward towards open war. ]]>gfassinaFri, 27 Apr 2012 13:54:25 +0200 I regret the decision of Switzerland to discriminate against eight EU Member States. This goes against the spirit and letter of what Switzerland has already signed up to. EU nationals in Switzerland benefit the Swiss economy. ]]>rfreedmanThu, 26 Apr 2012 14:54:41 +0200 You, Your Majesty, in contrast to others, have chosen to listen to the calls of the Jordanian people by bringing your country on the path of political and economic reforms.]]>gfassinaThu, 26 Apr 2012 15:00:28 +0200 President Schulz opened the session by welcoming twelve Croatian observer MEPs. Taking part in group and committee meetings would prepare them to represent their citizens fully when Croatia joins the EU, hopefully on 1 July 2013, he said, adding that Croatia's desire to join shows that "despite the economic crisis, the EU is still pulling together". ]]>gfassinaThu, 26 Apr 2012 01:17:54 +0200 "I welcome the release of former presidential candidate Andrei Sannikaw and the political activist Dzmitry Bandarenka. This is good news, but sixteen months too late. These freedom fighters should not have been imprisoned in the first place. ]]>rfreedmanWed, 18 Apr 2012 18:22:35 +0200 We welcome the UN Resolution, the first one adopted unanimously by the Security Council, authorising the deployment of an international observation mission on the ground. This resolution proves that the international community is united and speaks with one voice, calling on the regime to keep its ceasefire commitments and immediately put an end to violence against its population.]]>rfreedmanThu, 26 Apr 2012 00:17:44 +0200 North Korea's leader Kim Jong-un should quickly abandon this worrying path of international isolation and confrontation. Today's failed rocket launch is a dramatic symbol of the distance between the North Korean leadership and the real needs of its deprived and starving people.]]>gfassinaThu, 26 Apr 2012 00:13:28 +0200 It is with great concern that I have received the news of the worsening health conditions of human rights defender Abdulhadi al-Khawaja in Bahrain. I call on the Bahraini authorities to urgently take all the necessary measures to protect al-Khawaja's life. The Bahraini authorities have the power and responsibility to avert a looming tragedy. ]]>gfassinaThu, 26 Apr 2012 00:10:43 +0200 Landmines and cluster munitions are weapons that deliberately hit professional military and civilians alike. In the recent example of the use of landmines along the Syrian borders with Turkey and Lebanon, civilians fleeing the country were the prime target. This is a further proof of the dishonesty of the Syrian regime and I condemn it fully. ]]>rfreedmanFri, 13 Apr 2012 17:53:25 +0200 The European Parliament is a strong advocate of cooperation with domestic observer organisations which should be on the front line whenever an election process takes place. International observers, such as the EU, are only temporarily deployed in a country; they come and go. Domestic organisations are there to stay. ]]>rfreedmanThu, 26 Apr 2012 00:07:31 +0200 I am encouraged by the by-election in Myanmar, despite reported irregularities, which I hope will be addressed promptly by the authorities. I am convinced this vote will be deemed as historic. If followed by further reforms, it could be a turning point in Myanmar's history, marking the departure from autocracy to the path of democracy. Myanmar's people and the whole world have waited for this for half a century.]]>rfreedmanThu, 26 Apr 2012 00:08:29 +0200 Our Parliament has repeatedly expressed concern with regard to the issue of pre-trial detention, and specifically with regard to Mr Şik's case. We will continue our ongoing observation. ]]>gfassinaWed, 11 Apr 2012 14:36:17 +0200 The recent callous and cowardly murder of three soldiers, three children and a teacher in Montauban and Toulouse must strengthen Parliament's resolve to uphold the values of mutual respect and tolerance, said its President Schulz, opening the Brussels mini-session.]]>rfreedmanWed, 11 Apr 2012 15:31:57 +0200 "I congratulate President-elect Macky Sall on his victory in the Presidential elections in Senegal. After the tense election season, I particularly welcome the ongoing smooth and peaceful transition of power in Senegal and call on all parties to continue showing restraint. ]]>rfreedmanWed, 11 Apr 2012 14:24:31 +0200 Our assembly was born out of a shared will to establish a forum for regular, open political dialogue so that we can face together the many global challenges which have a particular bearing on the future of the Mediterranean region: peace, dialogue between cultures, sustainable development, environmental protection, access to drinking water, urbanisation, the development of renewable energy sources, intercultural exchanges and technological innovation, to name but a few.]]>gfassinaTue, 24 Apr 2012 20:14:09 +0200 Today's visit has confirmed me that the privileged partnership between the EU and Morocco rests on solid foundations. I stressed how, if Morocco continues on its path of reforms, it can veritably aspire to be a role model for other countries in the Arab world and a stabilising factor in the region. ]]>gfassinaThu, 12 Apr 2012 13:25:12 +0200 I am convinced that a comprehensive partnership with the Southern shore of the Mediterranean can be an incredible lever to re-ignite growth for the EU, Northern Africa and the Middle East. With the recent vote on the trade agreement with Morocco, the European Parliament proved that it is serious about improving relations with its Southern neighbours. Our support for democratic reforms and transformations in the Mediterranean region needs to be accompanied with tangible actions. ]]>pressinternThu, 22 Mar 2012 18:05:32 +0100 Access to clean water and sanitation should be considered as a basic right - and as the European Parliament resolution stated - it should not be a source of illegitimate profit. I am happy to see that some states have made concrete progress to protect this right in their legal system.]]>gfassinaWed, 21 Mar 2012 12:39:48 +0100 "I congratulate the new German President Joachim Gauck on his election. I am sure Joachim Gauck will be an excellent President of Germany. I look forward to working with President Gauck and welcoming him to the European Parliament in due course.]]>rfreedmanTue, 03 Apr 2012 14:30:02 +0200 One year after the uprising against the regime in Syria, the Syrian people are the victims of a daily violence and atrocities. The latest bloodshed in Damascus is another example of tragic loss of life. The UN estimates more than 8,000 people have been killed in this terrible violence. ]]>rfreedmanThu, 12 Apr 2012 10:08:41 +0200 I am appalled by the reported execution of Uladzislau Kavalyou in Belarus. On behalf of the European Parliament, I send condolences to the family. I deeply regret that the Belarusian authorities did not listen to the repeated calls to halt the execution by the EU institutions and international human rights organisations. ]]>rfreedmanWed, 25 Apr 2012 23:55:46 +0200 I congratulate Nicolae Timofti for his election as President of Moldova. I am happy that the Moldovan people finally have a president after 2.5-year long institutional stalemate. The European Parliament was heavily involved in helping Moldova to overcome this challenge. I welcome the newly elected president's declared support for the pro-European course of his country. I am looking forward to meeting him in the European Parliament. ]]>gfassinaTue, 03 Apr 2012 14:31:35 +0200 I welcome the adoption of the resolution on discriminatory internet sites and government reactions by a broad majority in this House. It is the task of the European Parliament to defend fundamental values of non-discrimination and freedom of movement. The European Parliament will defend these fundamental values and condemn such transgressions in the Member States. I strongly condemn the website launched by the PVV, as it goes against the fundamental European values of human dignity, freedom, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights. ]]>charlotte.durietz@europarl.europa.euWed, 03 Oct 2012 15:11:19 +0200 I was deeply saddened to learn that President Lukashenka has refused to pardon Uladzislau Kavalyou and Dzmitry Kanavalau, who have been sentenced to death for a bomb attack at the Minsk underground. Their conviction came despite strong doubts about their role in this tragic event. According to human rights organisations, their trial did not meet with international standards. I call on President Lukashenka to reconsider his decision. ]]>charlotte.durietz@europarl.europa.euWed, 25 Apr 2012 23:50:58 +0200 Last night there was a tragic road accident in Switzerland. A Belgian coach carrying 52 passengers crashed in a tunnel, and at least 28 people, including 22 children, were killed. We are all deeply shocked. ]]>gfassinaWed, 14 Mar 2012 17:53:21 +0100 The 11 March 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster was caused by humans, and could have been prevented, said EP President Martin Schulz in his plenary opening address. Marking the 11 March remembrance day for victims of terrorism, he condemned "cowardly, anonymous" attacks like that on Madrid in 2004. He also condemned the killing of thousands of Syrians by President Bashar al-Assad's "brutal dictatorship" since the start of the Arab Spring.]]>gfassinaWed, 03 Oct 2012 15:07:40 +0200 I congratulate Robert Fico and his Smer party for a clear and convincing victory in the parliamentary elections in Slovakia. Robert Fico is a committed European and I particularly welcome his determination and solidarity in contributing to the stabilisation of the Eurozone.]]>charlotte.durietz@europarl.europa.euThu, 12 Apr 2012 13:18:23 +0200 On this day our thoughts are with all the victims of terrorism in Europe and beyond, from Madrid to London, from Norway to Germany. On this day, we stand close to the families which have been torn apart because of these inhumane and atrocious deeds. ]]>rfreedmanFri, 30 Mar 2012 10:09:57 +0200 The Japanese people have given a remarkable example of dignity, resilience and preparedness on the occasion of the earthquake. The efforts and speed of the reconstruction work in Japan have been truly remarkable. ]]>rfreedmanFri, 30 Mar 2012 10:02:19 +0200 I welcome the agreement between Greece and investors on a voluntary bond swap. The agreement is a major step towards bringing Greek debt to sustainable levels and towards restoring stability in the euro zone. A successful bond swap agreement is a pre-condition for final approval of the second 130 billion euro aid package for Greece agreed last month.]]>gfassinaFri, 30 Mar 2012 09:58:28 +0200 "Equal pay for work of equal value is one of the central issues to achieve social justice in our continent," stated European Parliament President Martin Schulz opening the conference to celebrate International Women's Day at the European Parliament in Brussels. "It's a disgrace that women are paid less than men for the same job. This leaves me speechless, as there are no words to describe such an injustice". ]]>gfassinaFri, 30 Mar 2012 09:52:21 +0200 I have closely followed the presidential elections and their outcome in Russia. I have taken note of the conclusions made by the international observers. I am concerned that the electoral process lacked fairness, notably with regards to a limited choice of candidates and irregularities in the procedure. I expect the authorities to investigate those reported irregularities quickly. I regret that candidates did not have equal access to media and state resources. Most of the media clearly favoured one candidate. I welcome the reawakening of civil activism in Russia, which was clearly visible at peaceful countrywide protests during the campaign. ]]>charlotte.durietz@europarl.europa.euFri, 09 Mar 2012 15:57:42 +0100 Today's legislative elections in Iran, independently from the turnout, fall short of any democratic standards and are merely a way of measuring internal power struggles within the regime. Today's elections are not a "slap in the face for arrogant powers" of the West; they are a slap in the face for Iranian citizens. ]]>gfassinaThu, 08 Mar 2012 14:47:25 +0100 I congratulated Prime Minister Kubilius for the success of his government's economic recovery programme. The Lithuanian people's patience with austerity measures and structural reforms is now rewarded by the return of economic growth. We shared the view that governments should spare no effort to contain the sovereign debt crisis. Otherwise, it will pose a threat to our European project. We also agreed that the European Union's next long-term budget, the Multi-Annual Financial Framework, should not be cut. The EU budget is a powerful investment vehicle, which creates jobs and stimulates growth. ]]>charlotte.durietz@europarl.europa.euThu, 08 Mar 2012 14:37:48 +0100 I deeply regret this decision. It is a disproportionate, unhelpful and counterproductive step. It harms further the relations between Belarus and the European Union. I consider it a hostile act. Instead of choosing increasing self-isolation, Minsk should make the right choice for its people and open itself towards democracy. As the first step, Belarus should release unconditionally and rehabilitate all political prisoners. ]]>gfassinaWed, 25 Apr 2012 23:37:49 +0200 The latest reform programme for Greece must be fully implemented so that Greece has the opportunity to return to growth and restore its public finances to health. All means necessary have to be used to get Greece back on the right track including the use of so far unspent structural funds, funds that are directed particularly at SMEs and start-ups, as well as using funding from the European Investment Bank. All of these combined could give a chance to re-launch the Greek economy. ]]>rfreedmanWed, 25 Apr 2012 23:26:46 +0200 Today I stand before you not only as the President of the European Parliament but also as a German whose response to the brutality and inhumanity, the murders committed here by Germans, is a sense of deep distress and shame. It is difficult to find the right words to express my feelings, my sorrow.]]>rfreedmanSat, 25 Feb 2012 16:17:18 +0100 The President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz will address the Hellenic Parliament on Tuesday 28 February at 19.00 (Greek time (CET +1). The intervention will be followed by a debate with Greek Members of Parliament. President Schulz is the first non-Greek politician to address the Hellenic Parliament in recent months. ]]>rfreedmanMon, 12 Mar 2012 15:10:20 +0100 I congratulate the Yemeni people for successfully putting an end to Ali Abdullah Saleh's 33 years of rule. 21 February 2012 was an historic day for Yemen. Early turnout figures point to a massive support for the transition. I regret that some polling stations have been attacked and closed earlier because of violence. I send my condolences to the families and victims of those who have lost their lives trying to exercise their legitimate voting rights. I unreservedly condemn these attacks. ]]>gfassinaTue, 06 Mar 2012 16:15:34 +0100 I wish to demonstrate the European Parliament's support for the enormous efforts of the Italian people and its government to tackle the crisis and re-launch the Italian economy. I also want to pay tribute to the unconditional commitment to Europe of the President of the Italian Republic Giorgio Napolitano and Prime Minister Mario Monti.]]>gfassinaWed, 29 Feb 2012 17:44:34 +0100 Today's EP consent on the trade agreement with Morocco shows that the European Parliament is serious about improving relations with its Southern neighbours. Our support for democratic reforms and transformations in the Mediterranean region needs to be accompanied with tangible deeds. Reinforcing trade relations in agriculture and fisheries is a key component of this strategy. ]]>gfassinaWed, 22 Feb 2012 11:11:32 +0100 The EU and the international community are showing that there is a growing unity and strength against the Syrian regime. Bashar al-Assad's leadership is completely discredited both at home and abroad. His proposal to submit a new constitution to a referendum before a nation at war is inconceivable.Those responsible for the continuing systematic killing of civilians and massive human rights violations should be brought to justice and held accountable for their deeds. ]]>gfassinaTue, 28 Feb 2012 18:55:31 +0100 Kavalenka's life is now under threat from the hunger strike against his unjustified imprisonment. I urge the Belarusian authorities to release him immediately and unconditionally and to provide him with the necessary medical assistance. ]]>gfassinaWed, 15 Feb 2012 18:47:20 +0100 The fact that Saudi journalist Hamza Kashgari faces the death penalty for posting "blasphemous" comments on Twitter, and the opening of a Dutch web site to collect complaints against central and east Europeans, were criticized as affronts to universal and EU values by President Martin Schulz at the opening of the Strasbourg plenary session. ]]>rfreedmanThu, 16 Feb 2012 17:09:56 +0100 I stated my disappointment to Vice Minister Zhang at the stance China has held together with Russia at the UN Security Council on the 4 February vote on the resolution on Syria. With their vetoes, China and Russia have impeded the United Nations to pave the way for a resolution of the crisis in Syria. Assad's regime is indiscriminately killing the Syrian people and it must be stopped.]]>gfassinaTue, 14 Feb 2012 18:29:17 +0100 I welcome the announcement on the creation of a national Palestinian unity government. All parties in the Palestinian territories need to work towards Palestinian national reconciliation and state-building. I look forward to the details of the composition of the new government and to the exact date for parliamentary and presidential elections in the Palestinian territories. I am confident that the electoral process will be inclusive and peaceful. ]]>gfassinaMon, 13 Feb 2012 19:19:27 +0100 The President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz has congratulated the new President of Finland Sauli Niinisto and made the following statement: "President Sauli Niinisto is an experienced and highly capable politician, he is a true European. I warmly congratulate and look forward to working with him. ]]>rfreedmanTue, 07 Feb 2012 13:51:56 +0100 "On behalf of the European Parliament, I condemn the terrible atrocities committed in the name of the Syrian regime against civilians in Homs. My thoughts are with the families and friends of the victims. A massacre of innocent civilians has taken place. ]]>rfreedmanMon, 13 Feb 2012 19:17:22 +0100 I am honoured and pleased to reaffirm personally to Mr Jebali the support of the European Parliament to the Tunisian people and its new government. I very much value the fact that the first official visit of Mr Jebali in his new capacity as Head of Government is paid to the EU institutions and the European Parliament in particular. It is a strong signal of Tunisia's commitment to further enhance its partnership with the EU. ]]>gfassinaTue, 07 Feb 2012 00:15:18 +0100 sgabardWed, 09 May 2012 11:05:20 +0200 I deplore today's decision by the Minsk district court to dismiss an appeal against a four and a half year prison sentence for Ales Bialiatski, a prominent human right activist. This is another bad day for justice in Belarus.The European Parliament believes that the tax evasion charges against Bialiatski have been politically motivated and unjustified. Bialiatski should be released unconditionally along with the remaining 14 political prisoners, including two former presidential candidates. ]]>charlotte.durietz@europarl.europa.euThu, 28 Mar 2013 20:05:34 +0100 On this anniversary, I would like to pay tribute to the Egyptian people for their courage, their vigilance and passion for democracy. Elections have so far taken place in a relatively peaceful and organised manner. I hope that all political forces will continue to be given the opportunity to compete fairly in the upcoming polls. I congratulate the Members of the People's Assembly and the Speaker Dr Saad Al-Katatny on their election. I look forward to discuss personally bilateral relations between our institutions. ]]>gfassinaSun, 29 Jan 2012 17:08:49 +0100 The positive result of the referendum is a clear indicator of the continuing attractiveness of the EU. Membership is the right reward for the remarkable progress achieved by Croatia in its path to reforms in the recent years. ]]>gfassinaSat, 28 Jan 2012 18:49:21 +0100 MEPs elected Martin Schulz to be the new European Parliament president with 387 votes in favour out of 670 cast. The 56-year old German MEP will lead the European parliament for two and half years, until the beginning of the next legislature in July 2014.]]>bgorgemansWed, 18 Jan 2012 08:52:18 +0100 I especially want to congratulate you on adopting a resolution on tackling regional security issues. This is a very sensitive issue and I am well aware of the difficulties it created in the past. Yet tackling regional security challenges is of great importance for the stability of the Eastern region as a whole. That we can agree on such a sensitive issue is proof of the good working relationship we have developed, of the trust we have built. This success also shows that we can overcome future obstacles through open and constructive dialogue.]]>gfassinaTue, 18 Jun 2013 10:13:30 +0200 Public support for the European integration process has never been as weak as it is today. For one reason or another, people in all the EU Member States currently have the impression that they are being treated unfairly. It is still the case, however, that we have to act together if we want to win back trust in the EU and support for the idea that the EU is a community of States established in a spirit of solidarity, to be demonstrated both within those States and among their peoples. Robert Schuman coined the term ‘de facto solidarity’ to describe the principle which underpinned the foundation of the European Community.]]>gfassinaThu, 30 May 2013 10:20:42 +0200 Not only has South Africa impressed the world through its democratic achievements and fight against discrimination over the last 20 years; South Africa has also demonstrated that it is perfectly capable of keeping up with its increasing economic importance and the growing international political responsibilities that come with it.]]>gfassinaFri, 24 May 2013 18:05:44 +0200 Both our parliaments, the Pan-African Parliament and the European Parliament, share a fundamental common goal: representing our citizens and making their voices heard beyond the borders of our member states. Voices which have a lot in common: Europeans, as much as Africans, are world citizens who, although by times facing different challenges, share the same aspiration when it comes to social and economic progress of their societies.]]>gfassinaMon, 13 May 2013 11:35:30 +0200 Like many others, Ms Grybauskaite, I am counting upon you to maintain your commitment to this dialogue with our neighbouring countries in the interests of the EU.]]>rfreedmanThu, 09 May 2013 15:19:02 +0200 One year already! Yes, it’s one year since I assumed the Presidency of our Assembly in Rabat on behalf of the European Parliament. At the end of our session, I shall be handing it over to Jordan which will hold the Presidency during the year ahead.]]>sgabardFri, 12 Apr 2013 10:00:46 +0200 On both sides of the Mediterranean, people are unsure of what the future holds for them, are faced with the same concerns and challenges and are disillusioned with politics. ]]>gfassinaSun, 07 Apr 2013 12:37:48 +0200 At the Spring Summit, we traditionally address issues relating to economic and social policy. The decisions taken at these summits have a direct impact on the lives of ordinary people in Europe. Against the specific backdrop of our current situation, however, today's summit takes on even greater significance, as we have still not dealt properly with the social consequences of the financial crisis. Far from it, in fact - since the last Spring Summit, two million more people have lost their jobs, youth unemployment has continued to soar, taking on truly alarming proportions in some Member States, poverty levels have risen even further and in many EU countries the real economy is still struggling to obtain the financing it needs to expand. Quite rightly, people are looking to the EU to acknowledge their concerns and the hardships they face and to come up with solutions to their problems, which in many cases are serious enough to put their very livelihoods at risk.]]>sgabardWed, 20 Mar 2013 11:06:32 +0100 Exactly one week ago 27 European foreign ministers met in Brussels to discuss EU intervention in Mali. It was already the second such meeting they had held and they decided, as planned, to deploy 200 trainers, with the task of passing on their expertise to the Malian army, and 250 soldiers to protect the trainers. Twenty EU Member States want to take part in this mission, but some still have to work out precisely what form their involvement will take. Once that has been sorted out, there will still be one more hurdle to overcome, namely the approval procedures laid down in the constitutions of the countries concerned - in Germany the decision must be ratified by the federal cabinet and the Bundestag.]]>gfassinaThu, 28 Feb 2013 19:05:59 +0100 It is an enormous honour for me to be able to address not only this Assembly, but also the Presidents and Vice-Presidents of the parliaments of the countries of Central America who have travelled from their distant capitals to meet me today.]]>bgorgemansTue, 05 Mar 2013 19:39:13 +0100 The Mexican Senate is the embodiment of tradition and modernity: an institution with two hundred years of history based in one of Mexico City’s newest buildings on the bustling Paseo de la Reforma. The Senate is also, therefore, a symbol of Mexico: a forward-looking country that is mindful of its proud history.]]>bgorgemansThu, 04 Apr 2013 18:23:44 +0200 The New Year has brought some good news: there are increasing signs that an economic upturn is slowly taking shape, the euro crisis has disappeared from the headlines and investor confidence is returning. But it is only when its social consequences - high unemployment, growing poverty and alarming levels of sovereign debt - have been overcome that we will truly be able to say that we have put the financial crisis behind us. Until then we must continue to focus our efforts on fostering economic recovery in Europe.]]>rfreedmanThu, 07 Feb 2013 23:04:18 +0100 Mr Kantor, thank you very much for your introduction. Thank you very much for the cooperation between the European Jewish Congress and the European Parliament. Thank you very much for mentioning the decision of the European Parliament to transform the ceremony we are just attending into a binding ceremony for the European Parliament. Every year, annually, to remember together - with you and other organisations, together with the Members of the European Parliament, together with the Commission, together with the Council of the European Union, together with the Holocaust-survivors, who are the most important guests today of the European Parliament -, to instore such a Remembrance Day for the Holocaust in the European Parliament as a duty of our constitution.]]>charlotte.durietz@europarl.europa.euTue, 05 Feb 2013 07:55:16 +0100 I should like to start by thanking you for the invitation to speak here today before the assembled members of the Bundesrat and the French Senate to mark the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Franco-German Friendship Treaty.]]>sgabardMon, 04 Feb 2013 19:31:05 +0100 Es ist mir eine Freude und Ehre, Sie im Europäischen Parlament zur dieser diesjährigen Tagung der Agentur für Grundrechte der EU zum Thema "Justiz in Zeiten von Sparpolitik - Herausforderungen und Möglichkeiten für den Zugang zum Recht" willkommen zu heißen.]]>gfassinaWed, 06 Feb 2013 16:20:18 +0100 The crisis has laid bare the flaws in the design of Economic and Monetary Union. Now, however, those flaws have been transformed into threats to the very existence of our common currency and the internal market. Acknowledging this truth also means accepting responsibility for endowing our Union with an institutional architecture which works, which is readily understandable and which is democratic.]]>sgabardThu, 13 Dec 2012 20:51:04 +0100 Dear colleagues, our working day today will begin with a formal sitting. I am delighted to welcome you to the Chamber today. As you can see, the seating arrangements are a little out of the ordinary: seated in the middle are the ladies and gentlemen whom I have invited, one might say as representatives of the citizens of our European Union, to take part in the brief ceremony to be held here this morning to mark the award of the Nobel Peace Prize to the European Union.]]>rfreedmanFri, 11 Jan 2013 11:59:48 +0100 The EU is a fascinating project. It is a historical one. Look at the pictures here. If I take the example of my friend, Jose Manuel Durão Barroso, you see him here with the Prime Minister of Turkey. I presume it was for the opening of the negotiations for Turkey's access to the European Union. But you see on the other side a young man of Portugal, in the uniform of the fascist youth in Portugal. And he as a young boy had to wear the same uniform in a dictatorship of Mr Salazar. And today he is the President, the freely-elected President of the European Commission. This is a fascinating development. It was in 1974. It's not 1949 or '47, it was '74. The European Union is a continuous project of deepening and developing democracy. ]]>rfreedmanThu, 10 Jan 2013 18:34:26 +0100 The economic crisis in Europe is entering its fifth year. Unemployment has climbed to almost 11%. Youth unemployment is over double that figure. Some countries have been plunged into a deep recession. The response by national governments is to apply unprecedented cuts. It is undeniable that budgetary consolidation is essential.]]>gfassinaTue, 08 Jan 2013 14:37:37 +0100 It is a great pleasure for me to be here with you today and I thank you for the kind invitation. I look forward to having an in-depth discussion and to listen to your views on the state of affairs in the EU, the US and on the state of the key transatlantic partnership. It is in fact a fascinating time to analyse our crucial relationship - just after the US Presidential elections when you are tackling the so-called 'fiscal cliff' and we in Europe are also facing our own budgetary challenges! ]]>rfreedmanTue, 08 Jan 2013 13:56:34 +0100 You have some very difficult negotiations ahead of you today. The lines of disagreement between you run deep. Please allow me, therefore, to remind you of one thing: the decisions you take today will shape the European Union of tomorrow.]]>sgabardFri, 23 Nov 2012 12:02:50 +0100 Europe is entering the fifth year of the crisis and slowly we are beginning to grasp just how high a price we are paying. Following the destruction of wealth on an unimaginable scale, the long-term effects are taking ever clearer shape: the hollowing-out of the real economy, loss of trust in democratic institutions, tears in the fabric of our society and a Europe whose cohesion has been weakened.]]>sgabardFri, 30 Nov 2012 12:32:44 +0100 Thank you for your invitation. I should like to congratulate the organisers, the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, the Robert Bosch Foundation and the Zukunft Foundation, on their initiative in launching a series of speeches on Europe, to be given once a year in Berlin. It makes perfect sense to arrange for a speech on Europe to be given here, in Berlin, on this fateful date, 9 November, and in so doing send a clear message that Germany's past and Europe's past are just as inextricably linked as Germany's future and Europe's future are. Please accept my heartfelt thanks. ]]>sgabardTue, 13 Nov 2012 11:23:00 +0100 Thank you for your invitation. I am both delighted and honoured to be able to speak to you today in this House as part of my first official visit to Romania as President of the European Parliament]]>rfreedmanWed, 31 Oct 2012 14:06:09 +0100 Vor fast fünf Jahren wurde Ihr Land Mitglied der Europäischen Union - ein historischer Schritt für Rumänien und für Europa. Beendete der Beitritt der ost- und mitteleuropäischen Staaten doch die künstliche Trennung Europas durch den Eisernen Vorhang endgültig. Und brachte das rumänische Volk nach jahrzehntelanger brutaler Diktatur und fataler Misswirtschaft wieder dort hin zurück, wo es kulturell und geographisch schon immer dazu gehört: In die europäische Familie. Der EU-Beitritt war ein verdienter Meilenstein auf dem harten Reformweg von Diktatur zu Demokratie, von kommunistischer Miss- wirtschaft zu sozialer Marktwirtschaft.]]>gfassinaWed, 31 Oct 2012 10:21:47 +0100 The awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize to the European Union encourages us to renew our commitment to the European unification process. At the same time, the awarding is a powerful reminder that it is necessary to do so. We should take the opportunity offered by this award to pause for a moment, put the merry-go-round of politics, the 24-hour news culture and the constant need to placate the markets out of our minds and reflect on what is really important. All too often the EU's historic achievements are taken for granted. But the fact is that neither the European integration process, nor the peace and prosperity which that process has brought us, are irreversible. The award recognises the work of people who, through their commitment to integration, have made European unification possible. If we lose the trust of those people, the unification process will be in danger. ]]>gfassinaFri, 19 Oct 2012 10:30:57 +0200 Today, we are here to honour two extraordinary men for their selfless and devoted work on reconciliation in South-east Europe: the President of Croatia, Mr Ivo Josipović, and the former president of Serbia, Mr Boris Tadić. It is a great pleasure for the European Parliament to host this award ceremony today. The European medal of tolerance honours extraordinary and creative achievement in the promotion of tolerance. There is no better place than the European Parliament to send a clear message that everything must be done to prevent war from ever happening again on our continent. ]]>rfreedmanMon, 22 Oct 2012 16:01:32 +0200 I am delighted to welcome you today to the European Parliament for the 10th European Week of Regions and Cities. At a time when public finances are being cut back, regions and cities are faced with the challenging task of continuing to supply people's basic needs:]]>rfreedmanThu, 11 Oct 2012 16:10:16 +0200 Ordinary hard-working people can't be asked to shoulder the follow-up costs of this crisis alone. The European Parliament with an overwhelming majority believes that the financial markets have to deliver now and they have to contribute to the follow-up costs of the crisis with a financial transaction tax. In the view of the European Parliament it is simply a matter of moral decency and social justice. I know the reluctance of Ireland. But those who wish to have a Financial Transaction Tax should not be prevented to implement it on the basis of enhanced cooperation. ]]>gfassinaMon, 22 Oct 2012 17:34:00 +0200 At times such as these, at times of crisis, which call for swift action and are therefore always times when the executive comes to the forefront, it is all the more important to remember our proud parliamentary history. Pressure of events - the immediate responses which crisis management requires - is leaving parliaments, both national parliaments and the European Parliament, ever more marginalised. Parliaments are coming to be seen as an annoying waste of time, or even as factors for instability, and the representatives of the people are being excluded from decision-making processes. In effect, democracy is being undermined, and this is a development which I find deeply worrying.]]>gfassinaMon, 24 Sep 2012 18:50:16 +0200 Forging visions for our shared future is certainly a noble task, and in the long term we need a banking union, a fiscal union and a political union. It is generally easier to get through difficult times if you have something to look forward to. In psychological terms, I can understand this. ]]>gfassinaThu, 28 Jun 2012 19:25:21 +0200 Allow me to start with some words that are not related to today's ceremony. I would like to condemn in the strongest terms last 25 May bomb blast in Kayseri and deeply regret the loss of life. I would like also to stress once again that the EU stands with Turkey in its resolve to fight against terrorism. Nothing justifies such indiscriminate violence. ]]>rfreedmanWed, 06 Jun 2012 14:55:03 +0200 180 years ago, it was a diverse crowd of demonstrators who marched side by side to Hambach Castle, waving banners and singing: students and Parliamentarians; manual workers and farmers; journalists and lawyers; day labourers and servants; Poles, French people and Germans; all united in pursuit of the threefold objective of freedom, unity and democracy. Freedom, unity and democracy – even today, these demands still have the power to stir our hearts. Freedom, unity and democracy – they remain as relevant a responsibility as ever.]]>gfassinaWed, 06 Jun 2012 14:45:54 +0200 Ich freue mich, dass Sie mir heute Abend die Gelegenheit geben, von dieser Stelle aus ein paar Gedanken zum "Demokratischen Europa" zu formulieren. Diese Gedanken sollen nicht abschließend oder gar endgültig sein, soI am delighted that you have given me the opportunity here this evening to put forward a number of ideas about 'democratic Europe'. These ideas are not intended to be exhaustive or even definitive. Instead, they represent an outline of my thinking, one that I intend to develop over the next few months - with your help. The speeches given at the Humboldt University have an important function, namely that of providing a forum for public debate about the future of Europe. That function extends beyond Germany to Europe as a whole, and the speeches on European policy given as part of the 'Unter den Linden' series have a high profile. The ideas expressed in these speeches are taken seriously and they have led to significant changes in policy. As President of the European Parliament, I should like to thank you for creating this forum, because now in particular, at a difficult time for and in Europe, public exchanges of ideas are more important than ever.ndern sie stellen eine erste Skizze dar, an der ich auch mit Ihrer Hilfe in den nächsten Monaten weiterarbeiten möchte.]]>rfreedmanWed, 14 Nov 2012 14:33:35 +0100 The European Parliament is delighted that you are meeting here today to talk about ways of stimulating growth in Europe. Since the start of the crisis in October 2008, 24 summits have been convened, but today's is the first to focus on growth. This has created huge expectations, which you must meet - by taking concrete decisions - by June at the latest. ]]>rfreedmanThu, 24 May 2012 11:41:44 +0200 I have come to meet you in Athens today because I have the feeling that we in Europe have spoken far too much recently about Greece, and far too little with the Greeks. We Europeans should learn to listen to each other once again. ]]>rfreedmanTue, 05 Jun 2012 16:30:38 +0200 No one stands in greater need of a growth pact today than the young: the present young generation in Europe is in danger of being sacrificed to the financial crisis - of becoming our continent's 'lost generation'. It was not young people who caused the crisis, yet they are paying a disproportionately high price to rescue States and banks. Already, one in four Europeans under the age of 25 is unemployed, and in many countries the figure is one in two.]]>gfassinaWed, 30 May 2012 12:10:17 +0200 For the first time in the history of the European Union, collapse of the EU has become a realistic scenario. The close cooperation which exists between the Commission and Parliament is therefore an important sign that we are defending the Community method with determination. This is particularly the case at a time when the situation in many Member States is that xenophobia is growing, the euro is being called into question and Europe's open internal borders within the Schengen Area are threatened. ]]>gfassinaWed, 25 Apr 2012 17:45:30 +0200 Thanks to the Lisbon Treaty we have actually been able to take things a stage further: to give our common security and defence policy (CSDP) a face and a voice, we now have a High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, with an administrative policy-implementation body in the form of the European External Action Service. There has been similarly rapid development of the financial instruments at our disposal. Currently, for example, we are working to set up a European Endowment for Democracy (EED) which will make us more flexible and better able to respond in support of the processes of democratic transition taking place in the Arab world. These developments are to be welcomed: they are major advances, for which the advocates of a stronger Europe have long been campaigning. Nonetheless, given that we are here today to think outside the box, I feel bound, as President of the European Parliament and simply as an MEP, to join you in questioning how Parliament fits into the overall picture. ]]>gfassinaWed, 25 Apr 2012 17:11:40 +0200 Noch nie stand Europa vor so großen Herausforderungen wie heute. Die Wirtschafts- und Schuldenkrise dauert an. Armut und Arbeitslosigkeit wachsen. Heute sind bereits 23 Millionen Menschen in Europa arbeitslos, darunter sieben Millionen Jugendliche. In EU- Ländern wie Griechenland und Spanien hat fast jeder zweite Jugendliche keinen Job. Noch viele mehr sind in einer fatalen Spirale aus Arbeitslosigkeit, Zeitverträgen und unbezahlten Praktika gefangen. Einer Spirale, die allzu oft in Wut oder Resignation mündet. ]]>rfreedmanFri, 29 Mar 2013 09:55:42 +0100 I am delighted to have the opportunity to speak today at the opening event in the series ‘Speeches on Germany and Europe’. I would like to thank Sigmar Gabriel for his efforts in arranging this new series of events to be held in the Willy Brandt House. This shows that the SPD, as Germany’s most resolutely pro-European party, has understood just how important the debate on the future of Europe in the 21st century is. The timing of today’s event is good: yesterday someone I admire very much, Egon Bahr, celebrated his 90th birthday. Egon, please accept my very best wishes as you enter your 91st year. I hope you will continue to contribute to the debates on issues you feel strongly about, because we need your good advice more than ever. Just as you, together with Willy Brandt, made the world a safer place by devising and implementing the Ostpolitik, so we today want to safeguard peace and prosperity on our continent by driving European integration forward.]]>rfreedmanThu, 26 Apr 2012 00:01:42 +0200 In fact, the opposite is true. Vociferous calls for cuts in the EU budget may be popular, but they are highly irresponsible. After all, cutting back on the EU budget means cutting back on the most powerful form of economic stimulus available in the EU. At a time of crisis, we need that stimulus more than ever to promote growth and jobs. This debate is particularly topical because in 2013 the EU’s current financial framework will expire, so that a new one must now be negotiated. Parliament is well prepared for the negotiations. As long ago as June 2010, one year before the Commission put forward its first proposal concerning the new multiannual financial framework, Parliament set up a special committee, the SURE committee. ]]>rfreedmanThu, 12 Apr 2012 13:22:57 +0200 My visit to Athens this week offered the starkest possible reminder of just how serious the situation still is. I have seldom been so moved and so shocked when visiting another country. For that reason, I would urge you to talk to the people who feel the often painful impact of your decisions in their daily lives. With people who are demonstrating on the streets; with pensioners who, after a life of hard work, are now being forced to accept one cut after another in their standard of living; with young people who feel that they have been robbed of their future. ]]>gfassinaThu, 01 Mar 2012 19:21:47 +0100 I have come to Athens today to acknowledge your work as the representatives of the Greek people. We are only too aware of the heavy burden you have borne, of the fateful decisions you have been required to take in recent days and months. As a fellow parliamentarian, I understand how difficult it is for politicians to take decisions whose implications go well beyond electoral timescales, in the knowledge that those decisions may even cost them re-election. Your situation is similar to that of other parliamentarians in other European countries; parliamentarians on whose decision to approve the new aid package their own reputations, and the health of their countries' finances, will rest for decades; parliamentarians in crisis-wracked countries, who, like you, are being forced to take painful and yet unavoidable decisions. Setting aside these considerations, you have shown a sense of responsibility towards the people of this country and acted patriotically. ]]>charlotte.durietz@europarl.europa.euWed, 29 Feb 2012 15:17:09 +0100 The fiscal pact raises budgetary discipline to the status of a panacea for all the ills associated with the debt crisis and lays down national debt ceilings and automatic penalties. Yes, sensible budget policies are essential in order to keep national indebtedness under control. Yes, reducing debt is a simple matter of intergenerational justice, otherwise one day we will find ourselves in the shameful situation of bequeathing to our children not a house, but only a mortgage on a house. Ensuring that another crisis does not occur is not enough, it is all very necessary, but alone and accompanied by austerity measures in many Member States, it will not bring much needed economic growth and jobs. ]]>gfassinaMon, 01 Oct 2012 14:43:09 +0200 When I met with the representatives of the Jewish community in Europe some weeks ago, and when we discussed how to organise a commemoration of the holocaust in the year 2012, it was quite obvious that one date plays a major role; the 20th of January, because the 20th of January 1942 was the day of the so-called Wannsee Conference. 70 years ago, on the 20th of January, in Berlin, Reinhardt Heydrich and Adolf Eichmann and many high-ranking representatives from the ministries of the Hitler regime, decided the so-called 'Endlösung'; the 'final decision'. Difficult to pronounce it: 'End... Lösung'. This was nothing less than a decision by the government of a country to exterminate all Jewish people. We all know that they succeeded in killing 6 million. Men and women, children, old and young people, from all countries in Europe and in the world. ]]>rfreedmanMon, 06 Feb 2012 13:53:34 +0100 Thank you for this overwhelming show of confidence. Prior to today's election, most of you probably saw me simply as the chair of a political group, one other than your own, in the European Parliament. I am honoured by the trust which you have nevertheless seen fit to place in me today. I will do everything I can not to betray that trust and to give our Parliament a powerful voice. I intend to carry out the office of President of the European Parliament in such a way that those who voted for me today can take pride in having done so, and those who did not vote for me today are pleasantly surprised. I will be the President of all Members of the European Parliament and defend your rights! I also owe a debt of gratitude to you, President Buzek. You were the first President of an EU institution to emerge from the independence movements in Eastern Europe. By virtue of that fact, you have come to symbolise the triumph of democracy.]]>pvandermaesenThu, 19 Jan 2012 10:51:06 +0100