In the presence of His Majesty King Felipe VI of Spain and the President of Portugal Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, today the European Parliament celebrated the 40th anniversary of Spain and Portugal in the European Union. In her address, President Roberta Metsola said that Europe will continue to change and adapt.
Dear colleagues, It is a great honour to mark the 40th anniversary of the accession of Spain and Portugal to the European Union in the presence of two leaders who embody that shared European journey. His Majesty King Felipe VI of Spain, and His Excellency Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, President of the Portuguese Republic. Bienvenidos a esta Casa europea que también es la suya. Bem-vindos a esta Casa europeia, que é também a vossa. Forty years ago, Spain and Portugal took their place in the European family, after years of transition, transformation and perseverance. It marked a new chapter of freedom and opportunity that changed lives. Joining Europe carried real emotion. It brought confidence. A page of history was turned for good, and democracy was here to stay. For the people of Spain and Portugal, Europe quickly became part of everyday life, shaping how they worked, studied, travelled and imagined the future for their families. In turn, Spain and Portugal have helped shape Europe in lasting ways. You have strengthened Europe’s engagement beyond its borders, acting as bridges to Latin America and Africa, and leading Europe’s approach on so many issues. Throughout this journey, the European Parliament has worked hand in hand with Spain and Portugal. Spanish and Portuguese Members of the European Parliament have been central to this effort, helping to ensure that Europe listens, leads and delivers. The world is changing. In your recent Christmas message - Your Majesty - and in your New Year’s message - Your Excellency - you both returned to a simple truth: that democracy endures only when it is cared for, and peace only when dignity is respected. That truth speaks directly to Europe today. And it guides our work for tomorrow, as our European project adapts to the new world. Europe was not built to stay still. We will change, we will adapt, and we will look to Spain and Portugal to ensure we are ready for the next 40 years. The European Parliament has a responsibility to act, and we will continue to do so with honesty and determination. Your Majesty, Your Excellency, as you address this Parliament, allow me to thank you both warmly and to congratulate you for your tireless personal and institutional commitment, your closeness to people and your strong European conviction. Spain and Portugal remind us what 40 years of shared commitment can deliver, and why our work together must continue. Viva España. Viva Portugal. Viva Europa.
Here, you can read the President's speech in Spanish and in Portuguese.