For eight decades, the European project has been synonymous with peace, stability, democracy, and prosperity. The European Union is not perfect, but it has been a story of collective success. A shared achievement that has allowed us to live in freedom, secure rights, and develop a unique social model in the world. Today, however, this project is more threatened than ever, both from within and from outside, and it must be actively defended.

But defending Europe today does not mean doing so against American tariffs, Chinese competition, or Russian threats. It means, above all, protecting and strengthening the values that have been at the heart of the European project: peace, the rule of law, democracy, equality, and solidarity. The values that define us as a political community and a space for coexistence and which, as Enrico Letta often says, make us much more than a market.

We live in a global world where economic and technological weight defines the capacity of states. Europe's relevance as a global actor depends on its ability to remain competitive, and that requires a dynamic, innovative, and sustainable industry and economy. It is not just about growth for growth’s sake, but about ensuring shared prosperity that benefits all citizens. Competitiveness means having strong companies, trained talent, a green and digital economy—but also social cohesion and opportunities for everyone. Without competitiveness, European values grow fragile; without prosperity, democracy may falter.

And yes, common security must be strengthened in an increasingly unstable world, with wars on our borders and actors that challenge international norms. But European security also means protecting our critical infrastructures, ensuring energy security, defending against cyber threats, and building resilient societies in the face of climate change or pandemics. Security is not just a military issue—it is above all about everyday life guarantees and our ability to respond to challenges in a coordinated and united way.