The 28th of May, 1979, was a very important day for modern Greece. Thirty years ago, our country joined the European family at a time when Greek politics and society were seeking a new vision for the stabilisation of democratic institutions, the consolidation of development, the progress and prosperity of the nation. This vision became a reality thanks to our participation in the European integration endeavour.
Three decades later, the vast majority of the Greek people approve of our country’s European course. It is now clear to all of us that the EU helps to secure Greece’s national aspirations and is a necessary prerequisite for its balanced development. Even some who disagreed back then are now advocates of the European idea.
And on this day, we must honour the memory of Constantinos Karamanlis, the political visionary who pioneered our country’s European perspective. His persistence, his far-sightedness – his belief in the long-term benefits that would accrue from the country’s accession to what was at the time the EEC – was what put our country among the first European states to invest in the idea of a unified Europe.
Today, our country is moving with confidence and certainty along the European path. Having won the recognition and respect of our European partners, Greece is among the countries that make up the hard core of the European Union. Greece helps to shape decisions on our common future, and is the voice in the European institutions that constantly supports the building of a more democratic, social and participatory Europe; a Europe that attends the needs of its citizens and invests in the principles and values of European civilization.