Facebook LIVE Chat with European Parliament President Jerzy Buzek on the conclusion of his mandate - Wednesday 11 January at 2.30pm     

Just before the end of his mandate as President of the European Parliament, (17 January 2012) EP President Jerzy Buzek will be chatting with you live on Facebook on Wednesday 11 January at 2.30pm for about 45 minutes. Don't miss this opportunity: save the date in your calendar and make your voice heard!

Buzek on raid of NGO offices in Egypt  

"I am very concerned by yesterday's raid of the premises of 17 NGOs by Egyptian authorities, including the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, which is operating in Cairo since 1981. The search and closure of their offices without presentation of any warrant is not compatible with the rule of law. This act of intimidation is all the more astonishing as Egypt has engaged the path of democratisation and reform."

Buzek welcomes new government in Bosnia and Herzegovina 

I visited BiH in November and I am fully aware of the complexities of this country. I encouraged unity among all main political players and I am glad that they finally managed to reach the agreement. With this new momentum, Bosnia and Herzegovina can make substantial and speedy progress towards stability, prosperity and effective governance for its citizens as well as for the EU.

Buzek on the upholding of the prison sentence of former Ukrainian PM Tymoshenko  

I am deeply disappointed by the Ukrainian Court of Appeal's decision to uphold the sentence of former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko to 7 years in prison. The selective application of the rule of law in the Tymoshenko-case leaves little doubt about its politically motivated nature. The further Ukraine distances itself from the rule of law inherent to democratic systems, the greater the strain will inevitably be on its relationshsip with the EU.

Buzek on coordinated bomb attacks in Iraq 

The European Parliament strongly condemns the multiple bomb attacks that killed at least 63 and wounded as many as 185 in Bagdad, Iraq, today. The targeting of non-military civilian targets further underline the despicable nature of this heinous crime, aimed solely at terrorizing ordinary Iraqis. Now is the time for the Iraqi political elites to unite. Now that the Iraqi authorities have assumed full responsibility for the security and well being of their country the time has come to show true political leadership.

Selected quotes from the speech by European Parliament President Jerzy Buzek at the MERCOSUR Summit, Montevideo 

The EU had welcomed the creation of MERCOSUR with enthusiasm. Our common history and battles to overcome dictatorships, our shared culture and values, our strong commitment to regional integration, contributes to make the EU and MERCOSUR natural partners.

Buzek on the visit to Uruguay  

EU and Mercosur are large entities on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean with a total population of 750 million people. We need each other. We have the same heritage and same system of values. By improving our cooperation we can play a more active and stronger role in the global economy. There is a win-win strategy which is beneficial for both sides.

Buzek on the death of Kim Jong-il   

Under the leadership of Kim Jong-il the North Korean people suffered unspeakable hardships. Under his autocratic reign his own people were terrorised. I hope the leadership of North Korea will understand the signs of the time. The stability of the region is paramount in these difficult days of transition, but a new start is needed now. This regime cannot continue like it did in the past. The European Parliament sends a strong message of support to the Korean people.

Buzek to participate in Mercosur Summit   

European Parliament President Jerzy Buzek will participate in the Mercosur Summit on the 20 December 2011 in Montevideo, Uruguay. The President will address the summit as the special guest speaker. The summit is attended by the President of Uruguay, José Mujica, the President of Brazil, Dilma Rousseff, the President of Argentina, Cristina Fernández de Kirchner and the President of Paraguay, Fernando Lugo.

Buzek pays tribute to Vaclav Havel  

Vaclav Havel is the figure that represents the Velvet Revolution and the reunification of Europe. Vaclav Havel was a great writer and intellectual that touched millions of people; Havel will be sorely missed not only in the Czech Republic and Slovakia but by the whole European continent which he did so much to reunite. He was a personal friend and a hero of our times. In particular, my thoughts are with his family and friends.

Buzek on the deadly storms and floods in the Philippines  

The European Parliament stands by the Philippine people and authorities in the aftermath of the death and devastation caused by these lethal storms and floods. I extend my condolences and solidarity to the families and friends of those who have lost their life during the storms and flooding. I wish all those injured a speedy recovery.

Buzek welcomes the draft International Agreement on a Reinforced Economic Union  

I strongly welcome the fact that the European Parliament will be fully involved in the negotiations on the new agreement. The new agreement is fundamental to ensure fiscal discipline which is required for sustainable growth. In this time of crisis we need strong cooperation and willingness to take bold decisions. This shows determination to fight the sovereign debt crisis which threatens the future of the euro zone and our Union.

Buzek denouces imprisonment of Gao Zhisheng in China   

"I denounce the decision of the Chinese court authorities to send Gao Zhisheng to prison just a few days before the probation expires. Gao Zhisheng should be released and allowed to carry on with his life without further harassment, detention or intimidation.

Buzek calls for new free and fair elections in Russia    

The European Parliament calls for new free and fair elections and an immediate and full investigation of all reports of fraud and intimidation in the Russian parliamentary elections held on 4 December. The voice of the people protesting on the streets for more than one week must be heard.

Buzek on deadly attack in Liege 

"I am deeply appalled by today's deadly attack in Liege. My thoughts are with the victims, their families and friends. I wish the many injured a quick and full recovery and I am confident the Belgian authorities will fully investigate this cowardly act."

December 2011 Strasbourg opening: Eurozone, climate change, new MEPs  

The outcomes of the Eurozone crisis summit and the Durban climate change conference were highlighted by Parliament's President Jerzy Buzek in his opening address at the 12-15 December plenary session in Strasbourg. Mr Buzek welcomed 17 new MEPs, and also noted the 60th anniversary of the Geneva Convention on refugees and the 30th anniversary of the imposition of martial law by Poland's communist regime.

Buzek on Human Rights Day 

"At this year's Human Rights Day, the eyes of the world are on Syria. We cannot look away when innocent civilians are murdered, tortured or arrested on a daily basis. [...] This year's Human Rights Day is especially dedicated to the countless young women and men who have made history in the Arab Spring. Nobel Peace Prize laureate Tawakkol Karman is truly representing the spirit of these crowds who are standing up for their dignity and their rights."

Buzek on Anti-Corruption Day 

Corruption destroys legitimacy, thwarts merit, hampers efficiency and erodes the rule of law. In corrupt societies citizens will be deprived of what is legitimately theirs and will have fewer incentives to participate in public life as whatever their input is, the output will remain the same. Corruption is the cancer of politics and society. During times of economic difficulties, our efforts in the fight against corruption must be doubled. Citizens must be reassured that public interest is the only interest that counts for public officials.

Buzek on the elections in Russia  

Russian people deserve full-fledged democracy. The high turnout shows that Russian people care about their civic duties and rights. They deserve a free, transparent and fair election process.

High-Level Meeting on Disability: Presidents of Commission, Parliament and European Council join forces with the European Disability Forum 

Leaders of the European Union institutions today came together for the first time with the European Disability Forum to discuss issues facing the estimated 80 million Europeans with disabilities.One in six Europeans lives with some form of disability. Efforts to support vulnerable groups must be doubled in times of crisis as they are likely to be the first affected.

On Croatian elections  

I am glad that support for EU membership is an issue that cuts across the political spectrum in Croatia and that the winning coalition will remain strongly committed in the pursuit of European integration. It is necessary to maintain national unity ahead of the referendum, and sustain the reform momentum building on the good progress achieved by the outgoing government.

Buzek invites young leaders from the EU, Israel and Palestine 

"These seminars offer an excellent opportunity to raise the awareness of the European Union and our role in promoting peace in the Middle East. But above all, they are a way to engage the future leaders in an open dialogue. We want to encourage them to share their personal experiences and to challenge their views on the most pressing issues."

World AIDS Day  

Inclusive economic growth and education remain the best antidotes against AIDS. Further efforts in raising awareness are of the utmost importance: people who do not know about HIV are more likely to get infected, to infect others and to delay their cure.

Buzek welcomes adoption of Code of Conduct for MEPs  

The new Code of Conduct for MEPs will be a strong shield against unethical behaviour. The code's guiding principle is transparency. The Code of Conduct is a major improvement on the status quo and is the first-ever Code of Conduct for MEPs. I appreciate highly the wide consensus in favour of the Code of Conduct for MEPs. The Code was drawn up in record time of only ten intensive weeks.

Buzek's speech at the official opening ceremony of the Danish Presidency 

Denmark is taking over the rotating Presidency of the EU. Your four main priorities - a responsible, dynamic, green and safe Europe - are not only a to do list for getting us back on track. But they also have been the priorities of the European Parliament these past thirty months.

Buzek's speech at the opening of the Academic Year of the European College of Parma 

"I believe that we will emerge stronger from the current crisis. We will do so by being sure of what we have achieved and confident about the future - by being convinced that one of the proudest boasts in today's world is 'civis Europeus sum' - I am a European citizen."

Speech by Prof. Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament at the MERCOSUR Summit 

It is a great honour and pleasure to address you here today. Thank you for the invitation. We have arrived from the European Union with the largest ever political representation: the Vice-President of the European Commission, Antonio Tajani, and me, the President of the European Parliament, directly elected by 500 millions European citizens. We would like to give a strong signal: our choice today is for a strong, deep, comprehensive cooperation between the EU and MERCOSUR countries. This is my first message.

Buzek's valedictory speech    

The entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty changed the way our European Union functions. For me, the most important was Parliament's place in EU decision making. We are now the Parliament we always wanted to be - a full co-legislator in a two chamber structure. We achieved a lot, but this is a fight we all need to continue. To be strong is simply not enough; we need to use our power in every day practice and to decide. I am proud that the European Parliament, in cooperation with other EU institutions, is ready to prepare in a few weeks time a deep and comprehensive programme to help solve our current economic problems.

Speech by European Parliament President Jerzy Buzek at the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought Award Ceremony 2011    

Our solemn sitting is now open. Today is a very special occasion as 2011 will go down in history as the year of the Arab spring. I am honoured to award the European Parliament's Sakharov Prize for the Freedom of Thought in 2011 to five courageous women and men who represent the Arab Spring. The Prize goes to: Ms Asmaa Mahfouz (Egypt), Mr Ahmed El-Senussi (Libya), Ms Razan Zaitouneh (Syria), Mr Ali Ferzat (Syria), and the late Mr Mohamed Bouazizi (Tunisia) who passed away.

Buzek's speech at the European Council 

I would like to welcome the content of the agreement reached early this morning on a possible new framework for the eurozone. A strong signal needed to be sent, that the European Union could act decisively. Today's crisis is not only an economic crisis, it is also, but perhaps most of all, a crisis of values. This sounds banal, almost like a slogan, but let us try and take this idea seriously.

Speech at signing ceremony of Croatia's Accession Treaty 

After the Second World War our founding fathers found reconciliation in building a common European home. After the collapse of Communism my part of Europe found reconciliation through reunification. After the end of the Balkan wars, you may find reconciliation through jointly entering the EU.

Remarks by Professor Jerzy Buzek - President of the European Parliament "Meeting with EU Heads of Delegations"  

As this is the last time I will address you as President of the European Parliament, I will make a few remarks on how I see our inter-institutional relations, as well as some reflections on my most recent visits to third countries. I welcome this exchange of views that we can have on a regular basis. It is clear that the Treaty of Lisbon has strengthened the EU's role in Foreign Policy. It also significantly enhanced the European Parliament's role in external action. This was not only needed, but welcome - especially in these uncertain times.

Buzek's speech to the Covenant of Mayors  

Three quarters of our citizens live and work in cities. They consume 75% of the energy used in the EU. Over half of green house gas emissions in Europe come from urban areas. So, the fight against climate change is not just a global problem, we can see by these numbers that it has to have local solutions.

Remarks by Prof. Jerzy Buzek - President of the European Parliament Speech Addressing Turkey's Grand National Assembly   

Turkey has much to be proud of. Your economy has tripled in size over the past decade. You have introduced important social reforms, such as the expansion of healthcare to cover the whole population. Your secular democracy has become an inspiration for millions across Northern Africa and the Middle East seeking freedom from the authoritarian rule.

Speech by Buzek at the opening of the Sakharov Network Conference 

For any political transition to reflect the will of the people, it first and foremost must be grounded in a truly inclusive political dialogue with society. The people, political parties and civic movements must have the guaranteed right to express their criticism of certain reforms, as well as demand a faster pace of change. In this they should not be intimidated by the authorities, as is the case today in many places, be it by violent repression against demonstrators, military trials or by unjustified, legal pressure on civil society organisations and NGOs.

Buzek's speech on 'The EU's Responsibility Towards its Citizens and the World' at the University of Helsinki 

In these tough times, when our leaders have to make hard decisions which affect all our citizens, it is our responsibility to rise to the challenge and not fall into easy populism. This to me is what sisu is all about. To have the courage to do the right thing and not the easy one. Finland must not fall victim to euro-scepticism and isolationist tendencies.

Buzek's address to the Estonian Parliament 

You have the lowest debt in the EU. You have pushed down unemployment levels by an incredible amount. Your growth in the second quarter was the EU's highest. The world has noticed and acknowledged your efforts. Your success is a breath of fresh air. Because it shows not only the importance of responsibility and austerity, but it also gives heart to the rest of Europe. And the world.

Buzek's speech "On democracy in Europe" at Freiburg University 

If Europe is in crisis today, it is because trust has eroded. We need to gain it back. We need to remember our common values to make the right choices for the future. Besides democracy, freedom and justice, solidarity is the most fundamental value Europe is built upon. Solidarity is not our destiny. It is our choice.

Buzek's speech for the 2011 Lux Prize 

Critics of the Lux prize could claim that we have already many Film Festivals in Europe, from Cannes to Venice, from Karlovy Vary to Sarajevo. But the European Parliament Lux Prize is unique among them: it looks at the critical question of what it means to be European today. No other film prize has such a marked - and successful - pan-European dimension!

"The Principle of Solidarity in the EU: Challenges and Opportunities" College of Europe  

At the beginning I have a personal reflection. Solidarity - for me it's the greatest value of special importance. I experienced it in my country. Solidarity is not only the name of a trade union but it is also a sort of historic experience of the individual. Let me explain to you what it meant for million of my compatriots - it is a will of acting together in order to defend certain values, businesses or principles.

Speech at Konrad Adenauer Stiftung in Sarajevo: "Democratizing the EU and Beyond: The Role of the European Parliament"  

"As President of the European Parliament, I come here remembering the region's tragic past, but also hopeful that Bosnia and Herzegovina can once again become a shining symbol of multi-ethnic tolerance - with well functioning democracy and strong institutions. Bosnia once found unity in diversity. Together with the help of the European Union and the international community, it can be that kind of place again."

Speech Addressing the Serbian Parliament  

"European integration is no longer a fantasy for Serbia - it is within your grasp, but only through hard work and concrete measures. Serbia must keep up its pro-democratic momentum - not only to meet your European goal, but first and foremost for the benefit of your own citizens." (...) "All sides need to play their part in defusing the tension in northern Kosovo and in providing long lasting solutions for peace and stability."

Speech by Professor Jerzy Buzek President of the European Parliament to the European Council  

This is no ordinary European Council. We are here on a Sunday morning to deal with the extraordinary economic and financial situation facing the EU. The European Parliament is in favour of - and will strongly support you in - defining a decisive and comprehensive package. In times of crisis we must come together and stay united; all EU institutions.

Buzek's speech on the occasion of the departure of Jean-Claude Trichet as President of the ECB 

Dear President Trichet, maybe not everybody knows that you first graduated as a mining and steel engineer. In my home region of Upper Silesia, this is considered to be a very respectable yet dangerous profession. But it turned out that life offered you an even more dangerous job - that of President of the European Central Bank!

Speech at the European Parliament Prize for Journalism 2011 

Today, for the fourth time, we will award the European Parliament Prize for Journalism. And what a year it has been, with the unforeseen Arab Spring and the fight against the economic crisis. We are here to acknowledge the outstanding achievements of the journalists present. After all, whoever wins the European prizes today, you are all already national winners! As a politician, I must say loud and clear: journalists and politicians cannot live without each other.

Address by Professor Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament, to the German Parliamentary Society  

I should like to begin by thanking you very much for inviting me today. It is always an honour for me to come to Berlin to the Bundestag and be permitted to speak to you, the members of the German Parliamentary Society. The Society is 60 years old: Europe says ‘Happy birthday!’

Speech at the official opening ceremony of the "Parlamentarium" new EP Visitors' Centre 

We are here to celebrate the public opening of the superb new Visitors' Centre - The Parlamentarium! It has taken six years of work from the original idea to get here today and we can all be proud!

Buzek's opening remarks on the High Level Panel on: "Election support as a political instrument"  

For the European Parliament and for the European Union in general, hosting this year's meeting is an honour and an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to promote democracy abroad. There is a renewed democratic momentum worldwide; not only in the Middle East and North Africa. This lends a new sense of urgency to the cause of democracy support. While we cannot impose democracy from the outside, we must do everything to support the legitimate aspirations of those that seek it.

Buzek's speech at the Plenary session of the Eastern Partnership Summit  

The Eastern Partnership is a big pan-European project. But it can not go ahead without a parliamentary dimension. As recognised by Member States in the 2009 Prague Declaration. I am glad to announce that two weeks ago the European Parliament held its first ordinary session of the EURONEST Parliamentary Assembly. It brought together parliamentarians who represent almost 600 million European citizens.

President Buzek remarks at the "Eastern Partnership Conference"   

It is more than two years that the Eastern Partnership has been launched. Our meeting today in Warsaw thus is very timely. It creates an excellent opportunity for us to assess the successes and shortcomings of this ambitious programme.

Speech following receipt of the Polish‑German Award 

Every year, the Polish‑German Award calls to mind the most important event in Polish‑German history of the last twenty years: the signing of the Treaty of Good Neighbourship and Friendly Cooperation in 1991. Two years after the first partially free elections in this part of Europe - and less than a year after German reunification - our countries completed the task of reconciliation. Since then, Polish‑German relations have been better than at any other time in history. This award, therefore, is particularly meaningful to me as a symbol of reconciliation.

Speech for the opening of the first ordinary session of the Euronest Parliamentary Assembly 

It is more than two years that the Eastern Partnership has been launched. Our meeting thus is very timely. It creates an excellent opportunity for us to assess the successes and shortcomings of this ambitious programme. It also gives us the possibility to show that while the EU's attention is focused on the Southern dimension and the unfolding Arab spring, the engagement in the East should be maintained and even strengthened, both politically and financially. Both Southern and Eastern dimensions of our Neighbourhood policy are equally important, and thus we need to ensure that there is equal treatment between the two in the next Multiannual Financial Framework and in our strategic political decisions.

Speech by Jerzy Buzek at the exhibition marking the 10th anniversary of the imprisonment of Dawit Isaak 

"Today, we come to show that we remember. It has been 10 years since Dawit Isaak was imprisoned by the Eritrean authorities. Imprisoned for hopes of democratic reforms in his country. Imprisoned for taking the fate of his country into his hands. I come from a country where too many have been imprisoned for political reasons. I know that for them the knowledge that people outside the prison walls have not forgotten them was very important. That it helped them keep the hope.

Buzek's introductory speech at the inauguration of the Esplanade Solidarność and Agora Simone Veil 

Ladies and Gentlemen, Dear Friends, Welcome to the high noon! We take part in a very important, symbolic ceremony. 31 years ago, when I was chairing the first National Congress of the independent self-governing trade union Solidarność, I could never imagine that I would have been opening here, in Brussels, in the heart of Europe, the Esplanade named Solidarność, and the Agora named Simone Veil, after the first President of the directly elected European Parliament.

European Day of remembrance of victims of all totalitarian and authoritarian regimes   

The European Parliament passed a resolution proposing 23 August as a day of remembrance for the victims of totalitarian and authoritarian regimes. We chose this day because of its symbolic significance - the signing of the Molotov-Ribbentrop pact - which led directly to the Second World War, and the division of our continent.

Buzek's full speech to Seanad Éireann  

Dear friends, I am delighted to be in your country. This is a great visit for me. I know that I represent 735 of my colleagues in the European Parliament. We may differ from time to time on the very important issues for the European Union. However, from the point of view of representation and visiting all member states, from the point of view of presentation of the idea of unity of the European continent, and from the point of view of common values, tradition, heritage, we may differ from country to country, but all of my colleagues in the European Parliament are of the same mind that we need co-operation and openness if we want to be a continent which will be different from the Europe of the first half of the 20th century.

Message from Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament, to a sitting of the National Assembly to mark the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union 

As of today, all eyes in the European Union are focused on Poland – the largest of the new Member States – as it takes over the helm of the EU. Ours is a country in which support for integration is extremely high. Poland has skilfully handled the crisis, and today it stands as a synonym for positive energy, enthusiasm and optimism. These attributes are a huge asset at the start of a Presidency. In Brussels, people are aware of Poland's strength. One of the important tasks facing Poland is to change the mood in the EU. We need to bring some of Poland's enthusiasm to the EU, which is something that it needs now more than ever.

Buzek's speech at the "Platform for Secularism in Politics" 

In some cases, there is an official "State Church". That is one end of the spectrum. At the other end of the spectrum is the very strict idea of "laïcité" where religious symbols, or even dress, are forbidden in public buildings, even by private citizens.

Buzek's speech at Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung in Berlin: "Let Europe shine again" 

Europe has become a role model. The universal appeal of our values can be seen in our Southern and Eastern neighbourhoods. Unlike in the past, these values are integrated not through conquest and domination, but through free and voluntary acceptance. This is not only a chance for peace, justice and a better life for these people - this is also our chance to make Europe shine in the world.

Buzek's full speech at the European Council  

There are three powerful symbols of our European Union. The Single Market which we are strengthening. The Schengen area which I just mentioned, and which we should protect. And the third great symbol of our common achievement is of course, the euro. Today's discussion on economic governance is in fact a discussion about the eurozone and the debt crisis we face. This very last point is perhaps the most urgent, but let me start with the concrete issue of economic governance.

Buzek's full speech on the EU financial perspective and priorities of the Czech Republic 

The European Parliament is convinced that the post 2013 MFF must fully reflect the ambitious goals of the EU. We believe that the EU needs to allocate sufficient budgetary means to the objectives of the EU 2020 Strategy. As well as re-launching the single market. I am convinced that both of these are the engines we need for European growth.

Full speech to the Knesset  

It is a profound honour for me to address the Knesset today. I am here as President of the European Parliament, the only supranational assembly in the world to be directly elected, representing almost 500 million citizens from 27 Member States. I am standing here to deliver an unequivocal message of sympathy and solidarity to your people: Israel has a fundamental right to exist. Israel has a lasting right to live peacefully within secure borders among neighbours who recognise it. Whenever this right is questioned, or denied, the European Union will stand firmly by Israel's side, without hesitation.

Speech by Professor Jerzy Buzek President of the European Parliament "Young European of the Year award - The Young and Wider Europe"   

When we discuss "Young and Wider Europe", it is often important to remember where we have come from. I have just come from the Bundestag. A building which was on one side of the border looking east only 20 years ago. Now I am in a building on the other side of the border looking west. We can never forget our history. In our lifetime - or at least in mine if I look at all the young people sitting here - our continent was divided into "Europe" and "non-Europe". Why do I say this? Because Europe is not just a continent, it is a community of shared values. This is my first point this evening. The idea of Europe should not have fixed borders.

Speech by Jerzy Buzek President of the European Parliament to the Extraordinary session of the Committee on the Affairs of the European Union of the German Bundestag   

My first comment is that I would like to assure you that the European Parliament is in agreement with the German Bundestag on Economic Governance. We strongly support the strengthening of economic governance - both in terms of sustainability and surveillance of economic imbalances.

Speech by Professor Jerzy Buzek President of the European Parliament "50th Anniversary of Amnesty International"  

Amnesty International holds a special place for me. As it does for all of us who grew up in a totalitarian regime. Those in prison as "prisoners of conscience" knew that they were not forgotten. Because there were people in Amnesty who wrote letters on their behalf. This gave comfort, and reminded all of us that there was a better world out there.

Speech by Professor Jerzy Buzek President of the European Parliament "European Year for Volunteering"  

It is a great honour for me to be among you today. As European citizens we all have rights, and certain privileges. But we also have obligations. These obligations are to our fellow citizens and to the community we live in. I am convinced we need to encourage volunteering because it is a sign of solidarity. Something which is very important in this economic climate.

Keynote speech by Jerzy Buzek at the Community of Democracies Parliamentary Forum: "Democratisation in Europe and Europe's Neighbourhood"   

It is a great honour for me to be here today at the meeting of the Community of Democracies. I have been personally involved with the Community since the Warsaw Declaration in 2000, when it was co-drafted by my government. I firmly believe that our work can help make the world more peaceful, and more democratic. I have been travelling in the South Caucasus this week. My main message has been for greater cooperation in the Eastern Partnership. For greater work in resolving frozen conflicts in the region. And for the advancement of human rights and the rule of law. Last but not least it is important to highlight the message of future prosperity. It is so important that I am mentioning it at the beginning of my speech.

Inaugural Speech by Jerzy Buzek to the European Economic Congress    

I would like to welcome to Katowice, Silesia and Poland - the heads of governments of Central European countries ranging from the Baltic to the Adriatic. I welcome also the Vice President of the European Commission. I welcome all of you - entrepreneurs, scientists, managers and politicians to the European Economic Congress. We meet for the third time to discuss the economy of our continent.

Speech at the opening of exhibition on the freedom of assembly and expression   

Next week we are celebrating the 7th anniversary of the international day against homophobia. I make the same call as I made last year - let us make sure that future generations of Europeans grow accustomed to a culture of openness, non-discrimination and tolerance. So that in the future there no longer needs to be a day against homophobia.

President Jerzy Buzek's opening speech at the meeting of the Bureau of the Parliamentary Assembly of Lithuania, Poland and Ukraine  

Last week, we held the inaugural meeting of Euronest ‑ a parliamentary assembly bringing together the Eastern Partnership countries and the European Parliament. The Parliamentary Assembly of Lithuania, Poland and Ukraine may be seen as a forerunner of Euronest. By cooperating trilaterally, we have shown the European Union that it is worth paying closer attention to the eastern part of our continent.

Buzek´s speech at the Festival of Europe in Florence:'Europe is not a given to us. Europe is our task.'  

"Europe is not a given to us. Europe is our task. It is a utopian project, with the implementation of which we can have obstacles and setbacks, but it is like a lighthouse for our actions. Today, the status of this project for many of us may seem unsatisfactory. We are far from its full implementation. We do not know entirely in what way it should be implemented. But we are working, debating, arguing, without the use of violence, as would the Greeks. So even if we assess the state of Europe today as not the best one, however, we can admit that not for a moment have we forgotten how big and difficult project we refer our actions to."

Speech at the the SPEAK UP! conference on Press Freedom in Turkey and Western Balkans  

During my time in the Solidarity movement I helped to print an underground newspaper. In the Poland of the 1980s this was not easy. I remember how we used to organise ourselves - newspapers were printed in people's living rooms, in churches, in basements. Printing machines were smuggled from West Berlin, Austria or Sweden - from all over Europe.

Opening remarks by Professor Jerzy Buzek President of the European Parliament 'Joint Parliamentary Meeting: Western Balkans - towards a more integrated Europe'   

I am delighted to welcome you to the European Parliament. Our meeting could not have been timelier since it reminds us of our continued commitment to the European Perspective of the Western Balkans.

Speech by Professor Jerzy Buzek President of the European Parliament Energy efficiency Global Forum 2011 

It is good that today you are discussing energy efficiency. Better still that you are doing it in the context of everyday life. Because lasting effects are always made up of small, but real savings. This is why we politicians must set the example. It is seven years since the European Parliament took the decision to join the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme. Since then we have been successfully implementing EMAS provisions in all three of our places of work, on the basis of the principle that the most environmentally-friendly energy of all is the energy we do not need to produce and consume.

Speech by Professor Jerzy Buzek President of the European Parliament 'European Energy Alliance: First Annual Congress' 

When I am asked what is the most import joint policy for the European Union today, I answer without hesitation - Energy. We import 54% of our energy. Most of it from neighbouring countries which are located in unstable areas of the world. Only Denmark from among our 27 Member States is a net exporter of energy. We have to say it clearly - we are dependent on third countries when it comes to energy. We must become independent.

Speech at the Meeting of the Parliamentary Forum of the Community of Democracies  

Last year only forty-six percent of the world's population was living in a democracy. Who would have thought that today this number would be rising so quickly?

Speech at the European Federation of Chemical Engineering - Buzek awarded Honorary Fellowship  

If somebody asks me what my profession is my answer is always engineer. I am a scientist and an academic first. Politics came later in my life. When I was elected Prime Minister in 1997, I was very proud because I could serve my country. I was even more proud that I was given my Professorship that same year, because I could serve future generations.

Speech to the Plenary of the States-General of the Netherlands

Each one brought a tradition of hard work but more importantly you brought us the "Polder model" which is your true contribution to European political culture. This constant search - on the basis of facts which parties can agree - for consensus is what my institution is based on. It is also what the EU in general is based upon.

Speech at the Spring Summit for Financial Stability   

Yesterday the European Parliament, as a responsible partner, delivered its opinion on the change to Article 136 of the Treaty. We believe that a clear commitment from the European Commission to play a central role in the management of the new European Stability Mechanism is essential.

Speech of President Buzek to Tunisian students  

I watched you on TV demonstrating, cheering and celebrating. I recognized the same feeling that I had experienced. You went out and met each other in the streets and in public places. You realised that you were not alone and that you were part of something bigger. This experience can never be taken away from you. I applaud your courage and determination.

Buzek's speech on the Extraordinary European Council on Libya and the situation in North Africa  

Every hour brings us fresh information of a worsening situation. The Parliament believes that we must work with the wider international community, and especially with the Arab states, to use any means necessary to protect civilians. This is our first priority.

The increasing role of the European Union after the Lisbon Treaty - Buzek's Speech at the RETE-IHEE/ Institute of Higher Studies, University of Strasbourg  

We have now operated under the new Lisbon Treaty for over a year. Although there are still many aspects which are in the process of being defined, we can make some observations on how this new Treaty functions in practise.

Buzek's speech at the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union for the Mediterranean  

We, parliamentarians, have to show the way towards a renewed Euro-Mediterranean partnership, of the people, by the people and for the people. There is no real stability without a true community of values.

Keynote speech by Professor Jerzy Buzek President of the European Parliament 'Challenges for a new European energy strategy' 

Let us not forget that the current situation in North Africa can be the situation in Eastern Europe, the Caucuses and Central Asia, tomorrow. The struggle for freedom that the people of North Africa are undertaking is legitimate. We support their aspirations. But the side effect is that we must rethink the basis of our long term energy policies. If we do not want to face such shocks on a regular basis, is it not the time to reflect on our policies towards authoritarian regimes? Which happen to have oil and gas? Who financed Gaddafi?

Remarks by Professor Jerzy Buzek President of the European Parliament "Opening of exhibit: Bulgaria land of Ancient Traditions and Modernity  

I am delighted to be here to open this exhibition as part of your national day celebrations. Bulgaria is a country that has a long history and rich traditions. Last year I was among hundreds of students at the University of Sofia on your independence day. They reminded me that tradition and modernity live side by side.

Speech by Professor Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament at the February European Council 

"The voice of the people demanding democratic change is loud and clear. We can not and should not remain indifferent to those calls. We must be ready to support the democratic changes. A delegation of the European Parliament is currently on the ground in Tunis. I believe it is time to start thinking about a new strategy between the EU and Tunisia."

Integrating the wider Europe after the Lisbon Treaty 

We are today living in a reunited European Union of twenty-seven member states, but we do not live on an island. The EU exists in a dynamic neighbourhood and we therefore need a dynamic neighbourhood policy.

Ceremony in memory of Jozsef Antall 

"All of us have come a long way from the dark days of the Cold War. I am sure that Antall Jozsef would be proud that his country has just taken over the Presidency of the European Union."

Holocaust Remembrance Day  

Auschwitz is the most terrifying symbol of the Holocaust. Sixty-six years after the liberation of this German Nazi concentration camp, Europe and the world are remembering the 1.1 million people murdered there - Jews, Poles, Roma, Russians and many other nationalities.

Buzek's speech before the Maltese Parliament 

Malta and my native Poland joined the European Union together in 2004. Our two countries might be located in different corners of our continent but we shared the same hopes and dreams when we joined.

'The role of the European Parliament in the 21st Century and the role of the European Civil Service' - EP President Buzek opens the academic year of the École Nationale d'Administration  

We have now operated under the new Lisbon Treaty for over a year. Although there are still many aspects which are in the process of being defined, we can make some observations on how this new Treaty functions in practise.

Short speech by Professor Jerzy Buzek President of the European Parliament "Opening of the Loyola de Palacio Room in the European Parliament"  

We need for our EU crucial changes crucial people. Loyola de Palacio is one of them. She was a great woman, a committed European and a good friend of this Parliament. I am glad that the EPP has decided to name its meeting room, not after a historic figure of European integration, but after a dear colleague. Loyola de Palacio believed in Europe and worked for Europe all her life. First in Spain and then here in Brussels.

Speech by Professor Jerzy Buzek President of the European Parliament to the December European Council 

Responsibility is at the heart of the proposals for the revision of the Treaty we are discussing today. This proposal is a sign of both solidarity and responsibility. Solidarity to Member States in difficulty, but also responsibility by those countries to conduct the difficult reforms which are necessary, and to keep public finances in good order.

Marie Curie Actions for an Innovative Europe 

"There are many reasons why I am a convinced European, but one of them comes from my own past. For over forty years, Poland and the other countries of Central and Eastern Europe were cut off from the main stream of academic research. Our universities were underfunded and our scientists did not have access to the latest publications, and scientific data. I experienced this frustration when I was working in my University."

Speech by Professor Jerzy Buzek President of the European Parliament on the European Energy Community and Europe's energy policy  

It is a pleasure for me to be here with you this afternoon. This conference is particularly timely since the world is meeting in Cancun to deal with climate change, and the decisions we will take both there and later next year in South Africa, will determine our energy policy for the next ten years.

'The European environment - state and outlook 2010' (Soer 2010).  

I am delighted that the European Environment Agency's is launching its flagship assessment, SOER 2010 here. I find particularly useful that you have provided both country assessments as well as a Europe wide assessment of the major trends we are currently facing. This is going to be a very good reference point for the work we are doing in Parliament.

Address by Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament, at the opening of the True Colours of Silesia exhibition 

The Silesia Region is Poland's industrial heartland. I believe that, with the backing of the institutions and projects covered by this exhibition, it will continue to play that role in the future.

Speech by Jerzy Buzek President of the European Parliament 'The European Parliament - in the service of people'  

I have always regretted that we have changed the name from 'European Community' to 'European Union' after Maastricht, because we are first and foremost a community of shared values and not just a single market, with a common system of laws, and common decision making.

Full speech by Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament to the European Council    

The new economic governance we are creating has to be inclusive and has to be carried by all Member States and citizens. It should be driven by the European Commission, which is the Community institution par excellence to take the initiative. The European Parliament will act responsibly as co-legislator with the Council.

Message by Professor Jerzy Buzek President of the European Parliament "Mid-Term Review"     

I would like to give you a short briefing on what has happened in the past year, from the perspective of the President of the European Parliament. I owe you this information on what has happened in the past fifteen months. It is mainly about the state of the Union today, about the role of the Parliament and about your work as Members of the European Parliament, but it is also about certain initiatives I committed myself to you over a year ago.

Opening remarks by Prof. Jerzy Buzek, EP President "On the occasion of the visit of Mr. Ban Ki-moon, Secretary General of the United Nations"   

Last month, at the UN Summit on the Millennium Development Goals, we had an opportunity to review our accomplishments and see what still needs to be done. On Sunday, we celebrated the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. We are only two months from a conference in Cancun, where we would like to see concrete steps taken in our flight against climate change.

Speech by President Buzek on Combating poverty and social exclusion with Europe's philosophical and non-confessional organisations   

I am delighted to be with you today for this, second, annual meeting between the EU and representatives of Europe's philosophical and non-confessional organisations. This year's annual gathering is the first to take place since the Lisbon Treaty entered into force. The dialogue between the EU institutions and your organisations is now a legal obligation.

President Jerzy Buzek - Address to the Parliament of Cyprus  

I take great pleasure in being here with you today in this magnificent building. If the heart of a democracy is its people, its soul must be its Parliament. Cyprus and my native Poland, the Czech Republic and 7 others joined the European Union together in 2004. Our two countries might be located in different corners of our continent but we shared the same hopes and dreams when we joined.

Opening remarks for solemn sitting, President José Ramos Horta, President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste in the European Parliament  

Many of you will know and some of you may even personally remember that Mr Ramos Horta came to visit the European Parliament 18 years ago for the first time. This building, like the project of a united Europe, was still very much under construction at the time.

"The future of European energy policy" - address by President Jerzy Buzek at the Stakeholder Conference on preparation of Energy Strategy 2011-2020   

The Commission and the Parliament have done enormous work to create a European energy policy over the years, but today I believe we need political momentum if we want to relaunch the single market in energy. This is why in May I proposed with Jacques Delors, the initiative for a European Energy Community.

Full speech by Professor Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament, at the European Council Meeting  

Involving parliaments in major international fora, especially when tough economic choices need to be discussed, will allow for greater transparency and accountability, and should facilitate the implementation of difficult decisions. Major public debates should take place on the parliamentary floor, rather than on the streets of Seattle or Genoa.

Welcome speech by Jerzy Buzek on the occasion of the visit by Amadou Toumani Touré, President of the Republic of Mali  

"We have had the honour of welcoming President Touré to our Parliament before, most recently in April 2009, but this is the first time we will have the opportunity to listen to an address by His Excellency during a special plenary session in this Chamber."

Speech by President Buzek Combating poverty and social exclusion - an imperative for European governance - religious leaders' meeting   

I am delighted to be with you today for this, sixth, annual meeting between the EU and leaders of Europe's churches and religions. Starting as a Commission initiative, the meeting has become a fixture on the calendar of all three institutions. Meanwhile, the interaction has deepened, allowing joint reflection on important areas of EU policy. This year, of course, is the European Year of Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion.

Speech by President Jerzy Buzek at conference in Krakow commemorating the 10th Anniversary of the Community of Democracies  

I am delighted to have this opportunity to meet with you at the celebrations marking the 10th anniversary of the Community of Democracies. The Community of Democracies is particularly close to my heart. It was established in Warsaw at a time when I had the honour to serve as Poland's Prime Minister. One of its initiators was the then Foreign Minister, Professor Bronisław Geremek - a great Pole and a great European who is sorely missed.

Speech by the President of the European Parliament Jerzy Buzek at the European Studies Institute of the Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO): 'EU-Russia strategic partnership in light of the challenges for global governance'   

Before I make my remarks, I would like to express my personal thanks for the sympathy and condolences which the Russian people expressed to Poland at the death of President Kaczynski, Maria Kaczynska and 94 other Poles on their way to commemorate the victims of the Katyn massacre. I hope that the tragedy which happened in Smolensk will allow us to close certain painful chapters in our mutual history.

Speech by Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament, to the 'June European Council'   

This is a fundamental European Council. The economic crisis affects us all; we are all in this together. The decisions taken today will impact the generation to come. What's more, Europe is in a worse situation than the United States or the emerging markets. Eurostat has already downgraded its prediction for this year's EU growth rate. We must meet our citizens' expectations as they are losing jobs and live in uncertainty. I think we should take decisions in three crucial fields. First of all, we must recover from the lack of trust.

Speech by EP President Buzek to event: 'European Citizens Voices for an ambitious EU-27 plan of action to achieve Millennium Development Goals' - receiving e-card  

I know that we can all imagine a more ambitious success story than meeting the Millennium Development Goals, which bring us a step closer to making the world a better place, which bring us closer to fulfilling our pledge of solidarity, but which still leave us far from eradicating poverty in the world.

Speech by President Jerzy Buzek at the ceremony of the 25th anniversary of the Schengen agreement 

This is the most important anniversary for the European citizens. The anniversary of the Schengen agreement for me personally has a double meaning. As a President of the European Parliament I feel proud that for twenty five years Europe, step by step, has been abolishing its internal frontiers. This way a promise made by our founding fathers becomes a reality.

Speech by Professor Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament: "The 25th Anniversary of Spain's Accession to the EU"  

Today we are celebrating a great anniversary. Twenty five years ago Portugal and Spain decided to join us in building the European Union. You came as partners, bringing with you your relationship to Latin America and your strong ties across the Mediterranean, opening Europe to new possibilities, and helping to create peace and stability in our neighbourhood.

Speech by Professor Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament: "The 25th Anniversary of Portugal's Accession to the EU  

Today we are celebrating a great anniversary. Twenty five years ago Portugal and Spain decided to join us in building the European Union. You came as partners, bringing with you your relationship to Brazil, to Africa, and the wider Lusophone Community, opening Europe more to the external world.

Speech by Prof. Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament to the Romanian Parliament  

Romania and Poland were always allies, friends, and at times even neighbours. Poland will never forget the safe haven you offered to our government in 1939, as well as the offer of military assistance while my country was invaded.

Address by Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament, at the University of Nanjing on 'EU-China: strategic partnership in light of the challenges for global governance'   

It is clear that the traditional transatlantic partnership between Europe and America is no longer enough. However, it is clear also that a G2 model of America and China is not an option. we must look beyond bilateral relations and alliances! In this second decade of the 21st century, the relative power of both Europe and the United States - and the rest of the so-called "West" - is already decreasing.

Address by Professor Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament, in Aachen at the conclusion of the Europa Forum conference on 'Deeper integration - drawing on Europe's strengths' 

It is no coincidence that for 60 years these annual European debates have been taking place here in Aachen, the city that became the capital of the Moselle-Rhine Euroregion, the first such region in the EU's history, at the meeting point of three countries. You established here what would not be achieved for the whole of Europe until a decade later in Schengen, and then Maastricht, and as such you were an excellent and successful 'laboratory' for genuine European integration.

Speech by the President of the European Parliament at the award ceremony for the Charlemagne Youth Prize 2010  

We want to honour young people who think with a community mindset, who cherish our common future and who see Europe as united in diversity. That is why this Youth Prize is so important to us. I want to emphasise strongly that everyone here in this room today is a winner.

Introductory remarks by Jerzy Buzek at the presentation of the single market report by former Commissioner Mario Monti at the IMCO Committee 

I am delighted that we can discuss Mr. Monti's report on how to complete the internal market. The timing for such a discussion is very appropriate considering the unprecedented financial and economic crisis Europe is facing.

Remarks by Jerzy Buzek at the Open Days of the European Parliament in Strasbourg on the 60th Anniversary of the Schuman Declaration 

It is a great pleasure for me to be here at the European Parliament, to mark the sixtieth anniversary of the Schuman Declaration. The Declaration is just as relevant today as it was six decades ago because it offered a new form of governance, open to all who wished to join. A form of governance based on negotiations, partnership, and solidarity, and not one based on force and oppression.

Welcoming remarks by Professor Jerzy Buzek President of the European Parliament on the occasion of the visit of Vice President Joe Biden 

It is a great privilege for me to welcome to the European Parliament, Joseph Biden, the 47th Vice President of the United States. Vice President Biden has been a key figure in American politics and a friend to colleagues in this chamber for many years.

Speech by professor Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament, at Columbia University on "EU/EP after Lisbon Treaty and the Transatlantic Partnership"  

I grew up in a system where art was censored, where history was falsified, and where politics had only one colour. This is one reason - not the only reason of course - why I chose the hard sciences and not political science. Even the Communists had to accept the 'one plus one equals two'. Or at least they accepted that most of the time!

President Buzek on "The New European Parliament: Politics and Power in Today's European Union" at the School of Advanced International Studies - Johns Hopkins University 

I am delighted to be able to address you today. As a professor myself, I always feel at home when I come to a university. My passion has always been knowledge and passing on knowledge to the next generation, my activity in politics only came later on in life.

Speech by President Jerzy Buzek at special commemorative event in the European Parliament for the victims of the crash of plane of Polish President near Smolensk 

I would like to thank you! I would like to thank all of you, thank you colleagues from the European Parliament, thank you colleagues from the European Commission, thank you colleagues from the Council of European Union, thank you colleagues from the Polish Parliament, Thank you colleagues from the outside of Europe, thank you for coming here.

Address by the President of the European Parliament Jerzy Buzek to the European Council    

The Commission's proposed "EU 2020 Strategy" is a new document which still poses more questions than it offers answers, and I am glad that you will be taking the time to discuss it today. There is broad support in the EP for the Strategy. I am convinced that the 2020 strategy has to be as concrete, as binding and as targeted as the Single Market project was 25 years ago. Without a legislative programme of some kind, it is unlikely that we will succeed.

Address by the President of the European Parliament, Jerzy Buzek, at the Humboldt University 

"The new Treaty provides a new institutional framework for EU governance. It is too early to tell what final form it will take, but we can already draw some initial conclusions."

Welcome message at the Concert on the occasion of the 20th Anniversary of the restoration of Lithuanian Independence  

It is my great honour and pleasure to welcome you here today at the European Parliament for this special celebration of the 20th anniversary of the restoration of Lithuania's Independence.

Speech of EP President Jerzy Buzek launching the Notre-Europe EU-US task force report "Reshaping EU-US Relations" 

This report is timely, and it proposes a doctrine which calls for a new Euro-American partnership to meet the world's most pressing challenges.

Statement made by the President of the European Parliament at the opening of the part-session on the occasion of International Women's Day  

Today in Europe International Women's Day is not as we remember it from days gone by - at least in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe. 8 March is not just an occasion for offering flowers to women, it is also an opportunity for important debates - debates on equal rights, help for mothers with large families or combating violence against women.

Speech by Professor Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament to the Centre for European Policy Studies (CEPS)  

As you may know, I have been arguing for quite some time that we need to strengthen our cooperation in the energy sector. During my very first speech as President of the European Parliament in September last year, I suggested that we might create some kind of 'European Energy Community'.- a new 'EEC'. I also have raised this question with heads of state and government at the last two meetings of the European Council.

Speech by Professor Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament Pécs 2010 European Capital of Culture 

I am delighted to be able to open this exhibit in the European Parliament which celebrates Pécs as one of Europe's Capitals of Culture.

Speech by Professor Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament, to the informal meeting of Heads of State or Government 

I would like to first congratulate you all on the excellent result we had in Strasbourg on Tuesday! They were your Commissioners designate, and it was also your success! José Manuel, we are looking forward to working with you and your new team.

Address by Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament, at the annual reception of the Diakonischen Werkes of the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD)  

I am delighted to be here with you in Berlin today in the Heilig Kreuz Kirche on the occasion of the annual reception of the 'Diakonisches Werk' of the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD).

Address to the EJC 'Let my People Live' Conference organised on the occasion of the 65th anniversary of liberation of the KL Auschwitz

To the spirits of our forebears who were murdered in Auschwitz-Birkenau, we can say that we are all here together in order to ensure that their tragedy - which is our tragedy too - is never repeated.

Is the welfare of Europe at stake? The Economic Future of Europe  

I would like to thank the organisers for inviting me to address this annual event on the "United States of Europe". The topic is as important today as it was almost sixty five years ago when Winston Churchill called for it in Zurich.

Speech by Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament, to the Sejm of the Polish Republic    

I am the representative of all those who have made Poland what it is over the last 20 years. I also consider myself to be your representative and so feel I must take stock of European affairs and examine how Poland's affairs compare.

Speech by Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament, at the ceremony awarding the 2009 Sakharov Prize to Memorial 

There are days when I am particularly proud to sit in the chair of the European Parliament as President. Today is such a day. Today we are honouring the winners of the 2009 Sakharov Prize, the prize for freedom of thought.

Speech by Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament, to the European Council   

We have the new Treaty in place. We must implement its provisions quickly and efficiently. The European Parliament is ready to do so without unnecessary delay. We expect the same from the Council and Commission. We should recall that the Lisbon Treaty requires new procedures for cooperation between the European institutions. The Parliament is willing and able to rise to the challenge.

Speech by Jerzy Buzek on the occasion of receiving the award of the German federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia - Staatspreis Nordrhein-Westfalen  

It is a great honour to be here today and to receive this prestigious award from the State of Nordrhein-Westfalen which has a great standing.

Remarks by President Jerzy Buzek at the hearing 'Climate Change and Food Security" in European Parliament  

Next week the world is in Copenhagen. For me the importance of the COP 15 conference is not necessarily to negotiate a final agreement, we are not there yet, the importance is to get a legally binding worldwide agreement. Time is against us.

President Jerzy Buzek's speech at commemorative event marking the entry into force of the Treaty of Lisbon - 1 December 2009 

Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament delivered a speech in the Portuguese capital at the commemorative event marking the entry into force of the Treaty of Lisbon.

Speech at the presentation of the 'Lux' film prize in the European Parliament 

Today I have the honour of presenting the Lux Prize 2009 on behalf of the European Parliament. This is the third time our Parliament has bestowed this award.

Intervention by Prof. Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament, at the Round Table Meeting "New Partnerships in Democracy Building: EU and the Community of Democracies"  

I would like to first of all thank the Lithuanian government for organising this very important event. I am very happy to be able to address you this morning. I feel particularly proud of the achievements of the Community of Democracies as it was initiated in Warsaw under my government. My only regret is that Bronislaw Geremek who was one of the co-founders, is no longer with us today to see how far we have come.

Opening address to the formal sitting of the European Parliament celebrating the 20th anniversary of democratic change in Central and Eastern Europe 

"Let us not forget that communism was overthrown by ordinary people: Workers, academics writers; millions of people behind the Iron Curtain who never gave in to oppression. Their only weapons against the tanks were a strong heart and great determination."

"What does Europe mean to me?" - Discussion between 89 young people born in November 1989 

Most of you celebrated your 20th birthday this Monday 9 November. So I want to wish you all a very Happy Birthday! You share your birthday with a most significant moment in the history of our shared European continent, the reunification of not just Germany, but the reintegration of Europe.

Speech on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall 

"Thank you for inviting me. For me, personally, as a Pole and a Silesian born during the occupation, who spent most of his life in an enslaved homeland, being able to address the Bundestag and Bundesrat, is an incredible moment."

Opening Ceremony: College of Europe Bruges  

"I wish to speak today about an issue which is close to my heart: the need for a European solution to the questions of energy and climate change."

Address by the President of the European Parliament Jerzy Buzek to the European Council     

Our meeting will deal with some of Europe's key questions. In my opinion it is crucial that in even the most heated part of our discussions we do not forget the main aim which is strengthening the solidarity of twenty-seven member states. In this globalized world, only through using the community method can we be effective.

Statement by the President of the European Parliament concerning the winners of the 2009 Sakharov Prize 

First of all, I have an important announcement about the 2009 Sakharov Prize. At its meeting this morning Parliament's Conference of Presidents awarded the 2009 Sakharov Prize to Oleg Orlov, Sergei Kovalev and Lyudmila Alexeyeva, who work for the organisation Memorial, and to all human rights defenders in Russia, as represented by that organisation. It is our firm belief that the award of this year's prize to Memorial will help to ease the climate of fear, insecurity and violence which is being used as a weapon of oppression against human rights defenders in the Russian Federation.

Speech on the occasion of the opening of the European Jewish Congress' Brussels Office  

'I would like to take this occasion to underline my own personal commitment to the promotion of tolerance and reconciliation, as well as to the combat against anti-Semitism and all forms of discrimination based on race or religion.'

70th Anniversary of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact 

"What happened seventy years ago, that large states talked among themselves about the fate of small nations, has been made impossible by the European Union."

Opening Speech to First European Innovation Summit  

It is my pleasure to welcome you all to the First European Innovation Summit. Over the next two days the European Parliament will transform into an arena of innovation.

Speech by Jerzy Buzek at the ceremonial signing of the Treaty of Lisbon by President of Poland 

"A short moment ago Poland joined other 26 other countries, which have ratified the Treaty of Lisbon"

Key points from speech by President Jerzy Buzek at the Latvian Saeima 

Latvia is one of the first countries I have officially visited since taking office in the European Parliament. I have made a point to go to the Baltic States to show EU solidarity with EU member states worst affected by the global economic crisis.

Inaugural address by Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament     

'I stand before you today as the 13th President of the directly elected European Parliament. As many of you have said, my election is also symbolic - symbolic of the dream of a united continent held by the citizens in our part of Europe, a dream that has now been fulfilled.'

Speech by Jerzy Buzek at the Institute of International and European Affairs: "The Lisbon Treaty, Ireland and the Future of the EU" 

Speech by Jerzy Buzek at the ceremony commemorating 70th anniversary of the outbreak of the World War II 

In 2008 the European Parliament commemorated the victims of the two great totalitarian regimes of the 20th century and proclaimed 23 August - the anniversary of the signing of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact - as a European Day of Remembrance for Victims of Stalinism and Nazism.

Statement by the President in Plenary 

"While we had a break during our session, it has come to my attention that an Italian soldier was killed today in Afghanistan in the NATO led mission there. His death comes after fifteen British soldiers were killed in the past month."

Inaugural speech by Jerzy Buzek following his election as President of the European Parliament    

"Thank you for electing me President of the European Parliament, for me it is both an enormous challenge and a great honour. Thank you for those who have voted for me. I will do everything not to disappoint your trust. For those of you who did not vote for me, I will try to convince you to me."