The event was attended by Luxembourg’s Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Jean Asselborn, who highlighted the commitment of both sides to the Greater Region in an interview with German broadcaster SWR. He also expressed his belief that no one really uses the word “border” anymore, given that Europe has become an integral part of daily life in the Greater Region.
Asselborn also took the opportunity to once again condemn the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The Minister called the 2016 Brexit referendum “a low point” in terms of nationalism, arguing that it was “built on fake news.” He added that 2016 also saw Donald Trump being elected as President of the United States.
Regarding the size of the EU administration, Asselborn dismissed suggestions that it should be reduced in size. With a population of 450 million, he argued that the current workforce of 32,000 in Strasbourg, Brussels, and Luxembourg was “financially bearable.”
In Luxembourg City, another Europe Day celebration is being held on Place de l’Europe, featuring concerts, food trucks, a European village with various stalls, and an area for children. At 2pm, the official ceremony with speeches by Mayor Lydie Polfer, Chamber of Deputies President Fernand Etgen, Prime Minister Xavier Bettel, Vice President of the European Parliament Marc Angel, and European Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights Nicolas Schmit took place.
Grand Duke Henri also participated in the festivities and cut a cake in the colours of the EU flag. The celebrations will conclude with a concert by the Luxembourgish indie pop band TUYS at 5.15pm.
