“It is particularly symbolic that we are here in Florence, a city that embodies the European peace project as part of its identity,” said European Council President Antonio Costa during a speech at the European University Institute in Fiesole, held on Europe Day.
Costa recalled the visionary role of Giorgio La Pira, former mayor of Florence, who in 1955 brought together mayors from both sides of the Iron Curtain for the Conference of Mayors of Capital Cities, held in Florence. “La Pira believed that cities, as microcosms of humanity, had the potential to bridge divisions and promote peace,” Costa said, acknowledging the city’s enduring contribution to European values.
At a time of rising global tensions, Costa used the platform to reinforce the idea that peace is not a passive condition but a political and civic process. “Without strong political will, without concrete actions that touch people’s lives, philosophy becomes just a comfortable way of talking about peace,” he said. “We must put ideas into practice.”
Costa spoke at length about the war in Ukraine, describing it as a defining challenge for the continent. “Europe must continue to support Ukraine towards a just, comprehensive and lasting peace. A peace that does not reward the aggressor,” he said. “The security of Ukraine is the security of Europe.”
He also warned that Russia’s threat extends beyond Ukraine. “Russia casts a shadow over the Baltic States, the eastern borders of the European Union, our democratic systems, and our critical infrastructure,” Costa said, underlining the need for a united and strategic European response.
On defense, Costa was clear: “Peace without defense is an illusion. In today’s world, we must be able to defend ourselves and deter future aggression.” He noted that EU defense spending has increased by over 30% since 2022, but added that “we must go further, and go together.”
Turning to global economic issues, Costa addressed trade tensions and the EU’s relationship with China. While calling for cooperation, he urged clarity from Beijing: “We would appreciate greater clarity from China on its real neutrality in the war between Russia and Ukraine.” At the same time, he warned against trade imbalances and emphasized the need to avoid unfair competition.
Despite these challenges, Costa expressed confidence in Europe’s potential: “This is the moment for Europe to remember why it was created and to rise again to the occasion,” he said. “The world needs Europe—for peace, for prosperity, and for a rules-based global order.”
Costa’s visit to Florence served as a reminder of the city’s historical and symbolic place in European diplomacy. From La Pira’s legacy to today’s geopolitical crossroads, Florence once again becomes a stage where Europe reflects on its past and looks toward its future.
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