One of the fundamental objectives of the EU is to create an area without internal borders where people may move, live and work freely, knowing that their rights are fully respected and their security ensured.

Human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights – these values have been embedded in the EU treaties right from the start.

As an EU citizen, you have the right to live and move within the EU without being discriminated against on the grounds of your nationality.

EU citizenship complements national citizenship and gives you some important additional rights.

The EU aims to promote the competitiveness of EU industry and businesses and enhance job creation and economic growth by creating a business-friendly environment.

The EU is the world’s biggest trader, accounting for 20% of the world’s imports and exports. Free trade among its members was one of the EU’s founding principles, and it is committed to liberalizing world trade as well.

Our behaviour makes huge demands on the planet. Addressing the challenge requires collective action, involving the EU national, regional and local governments.

The EU culture program enhances our shared cultural heritage.

Europe’s cultural and creative sectors contribute to economic growth, employment, innovation and social cohesion.

For 2007-13, the EU has allocated almost €13 billion to lifelong learning and worldwide exchanges.

In addition to 24 official EU languages, many regional and minority languages are spoken in Europe. The EU strives to protect this linguistic diversity and promote the learning of languages.

New Member States bring a wealth of diversity.

The challenges are significant.

Despite the differences, cooperation and common will has helped the EU come of age and mature.

Our Greek students have been inspired by this Europe and are sending out to you their depictions of their thoughts…

This year, on May 9…

…let’s celebrate the differences!!!

2/4/2014