In these times when so many look to Europe with uncertainty or despondency, when Europe seems no longer capable of fulfilling the promise of a just society, when many fear for their jobs, their savings, their futures and those of their children, we Heads of State from EU member states both new and old, countries with different experiences, traditions and mindsets, are sending a message of encouragement. We will overcome this serious economic and financial crisis.

- Let us realize what a fortunate gift it is that the EU member states have lived in peace and freedom for more than 60 years. The Nobel Peace Prize for the EU is an encouragement to us, and spurs us on to move Europe further forward: Europe must live up to its responsibilities and act united in the world.

- Let us stand firmly against mutual resentment and any relapse into nationalistic and narrow - minded views. Only standing united we will be able to cope with the challenges of the globalised world.

- Let us recognize that solidarity is inextricably linked to the respect of shared commitments and common rules.

- Let us strengthen the democratic legitimacy of the EU decision - making and continue to work towards a real Political Union.

- Let us reaffirm our common conviction that focused investment into sustainable growth is the best way to maintain prosperity and stability on our continent. In this context we highlight the upcoming European Council that will negotiate the Multiannual Financial Framework 2014-2020.

- Let us underline the importance of the EU enlargement policy that continues to advance democracy and human rights as well as to foster peace and prosperity.

- Let us appreciate the value of pluralism and diversity in language and culture, which is a distinctive brand of our societies and lifestyles.

- Let us place a serious priority on education, science and research as indispensable conditions for prosperity and a bright future for our children and grandchildren.

More than 60 years ago, at the end of the World War, our continent lay in ruins. Death, destruction and unspeakable suffering had marked the lives of millions. After the war's end, unprecedented rebuilding efforts began in the Western countries of our continent, while the citizens in Central and Eastern Europe were forced to live under totalitarian rule.

More than 20 years ago, the people who took to the streets of Central and Eastern Europe showed the power of the yearning for freedom which had from the outset formed the foundation of our Europe.

Let us draw inspiration from the strength of those who rebuilt Europe after the Second World War, of those who joined later and of those who fought for freedom, justice and self-determination in 1989-90. They all achieved something extraordinary and taught us to have trust in our own powers. Let us reflect on our creativity, our economic strengths and our political culture, which includes contention but does not end in strife, but rather has created a culture of successful consensus. Let us not give up in building a truly European public sphere. We look forward in particular to the ideas and to the engagement by the younger generations of Europeans.

Every generation faces its own challenges. Let us take on ours!

Giorgio Napolitano Bronislaw Komorowski Joachim Gauck

Naples, Villa Rosebery, 19th November 2012