” “"The proclamation of the Charter of Fundamental Rights, which is taking place today, has not a mere symbolical value. It is a due institutional step to place the citizens’ rights at the heart of the EU’s actions". José Manuel Barroso, president of the EU Commission, explains with these words, from Strasbourg, the meaning of the ceremony that will take place at the EU Parliament. Barroso also explains the meaning of the official meetings of the 27 member states over the next two days. "The new Reform Treaty will be signed in Lisbon tomorrow. Again, we have to look beyond the formality of the event. It is about certifying the shared commitment of the member states about our willingness to build Europe". According to the head of the EU Executive, "the European Council, which will take place in Brussels on Friday, also takes on a great significance. Together we will have to face the challenges that globalisation throw at the European Union, looking for solutions through a strengthened Lisbon Strategy, the fight against climate change, more competitiveness for our economy. In this way concludes Barroso , we will get ready to face the future and to deliver effective results to the benefit of the European citizens".” “
