King Philippe of Belgium emphasised the nation's innately European spirit in a speech to the European Parliament in Brussels on Wednesday.
In his inaugural address to the assembly, the King praised the key legislative advances made during Belgium's ongoing Presidency of the Council of the EU, set to continue until June. The final leg of the Presidency, he pointed out, is characterised by reflection on the future of the Union and the significant challenges posed by expansion issues. "We will continue to fully commit with conviction as our faith in Europe is etched into our genes," he affirmed.
Committed to unity despite regular discord within the EU, King Philippe highlighted how the Covid-19 pandemic and invasion of Ukraine demonstrated the Union's capability for strong, united decisions. Yet, he stressed that Europe was not merely about crisis management, but should strive for a long-term vision.
The King urged the EU to stay united in battling climate change: "We need to maintain this course of action, ensuring that the strongest shoulders bear the heaviest burdens."
'Great European revolution of our time'
Warning against a form of "sleepwalking" within the EU, the Belgian King cited one of the EU's founders, Jean Monnet. He called upon Europeans to execute a "great European revolution of our time," seeking to supplant national rivalries with union in liberty and diversity.
The single market needs further development with a focus on innovation, he said. Regarding the economic autonomy of Europe, he insisted it could be achieved through boosting competitiveness.
"Let us work together towards a real reindustrialisation of Europe, centred on green and digital revolutions, representing more than just a simple transition," he added. "We need to increasingly take control of our economic destiny."
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King Philippe also pushed for enhancing Europe's decision-making ability in terms of security and defence: "The European dimension of security can be greatly improved, particularly in these uncertain times when even long-standing alliances are under strain."
Russia's invasion of Ukraine was portrayed as a struggle for the defence of our security and values. "We feel the threat on us too. And not without basis."
"Our goal is to protect, strengthen and prepare for the future," he concluded.
