The European Parliament has marked 80 years since the end of World War II in Europe. Three veterans addressed the deputies
The European Parliament marked in Strasbourg on Wednesday, 80 years since the end of World War II in Europe, in a plenary ceremony with three veterans.
Ceremony at the European Photo Parliament: European Parliament
“At 80 years after the weapons were silent in Europe, we honor the courage of those who fought and the sacrifice of those who fell. We remember not only the end of a war, but also the birth of our Union. The most powerful tribute to those who sacrificed their lives in this war consists not only in our memory, said the President Roberta Metsola, quoted in a press release during the ceremony, writes Agepres.
For his part, the president of the European Council, Antonio Costa, thanked the veterans for “their sacrifice and commitment to peace, “ expressing the regret that today, “We cannot celebrate peace in peace ”after the invasion of Russia from Ukraine.
Costa encouraged the EU member states and their partners to remain united in front of the Russian aggressor, as the best way to pay tribute to those who gave their lives 80 years ago to defend freedom. He also reminded European citizens that “Peace is an inheritance, but also a responsibility. “
Three war veterans addressed the European deputies. This is Robert Chot, a 102 -year -old Belgian veteran of Ardenni, Janusz Komorowski, a Polish veteran of Poland, now 95, and Janusz Maksymowicz, also a 96 -year -old Polish, who participated in the Revolt of Ghetovia.
Ceremony at the European Photo Parliament: European Parliament
“80 years ago, the weapons were silent, ending a terrible battle that caused millions of dead in Europe and elsewhere. If today we still live in peace, this happens to you and the countries you represent.”said the veteran Robert Chot.
“Peace is always uncertain. There are always clouds above us. Let's do what it is necessary to ensure that peace is in Europe.”he added.
Veteran Janusz Komorowski spoke about the difficult destiny of the Poles who fought for freedom and independence and for the right of the Polish nation to exist, in Poland, abroad and during the Warsaw revolt of 1944.
“They also gave their lives for the freedom of other nations, in the hope that the brutal force of the destroyers of peace will be crushed forever. Today, I want to thank that generation during the war, but also European Parliament Because it has become a lighthouse of peace, freedom and democracy and for the firm defense of these values ”, he concluded.
For his part, the veteran Janusz Maksymowicz pointed out that the fight for freedom and values did not end, but has acquired new forms.
“We know how ruthless the ideologies that divide people and nations. That is why today we say with full conviction: the community means power. A community of nations that respect the European traditions and cultures of all people who want to live in peace.”he said.
The ceremony ended with a musical interpretation of the European anthem by a soprano accompanied by a set of strings.
Before the plenary event, Presidents Metsola and Costa participated in a flag lifting ceremony and depositing wreaths in front of the European Parliament building in Strasbourg.
