Europe, and beyond, will tomorrow celebrate the founding of what today has become the European Union (EU). It all started in Rome, 50 years ago... and even before that!

In a speech at the University of Zurich on September 19, 1946, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Winston Churchill, called for a European union. This single suggestion was at the time just a little thought; it later turned out to be the spark that ignited the EU's bright flame.

The period between Mr Churchill's speech and the Treaties of Rome witnessed a number of attempts to unite the most potent European countries. Prime Minister Churchill sought to pursue his dream himself when he fostered the United Europe Movement on May 14, 1947.

On March 25, 1957 six European countries (Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg and the Netherlands) signed the treaties establishing the European Economic Community (EEC) and the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom) in Rome. These were known as the Treaties of Rome.

These treaties came into force on January 1, 1958.

Back in 1946, Mr Churchill had said: "Let Europe arise" , And it did.

From six countries, the EU, an example of peace to the rest of the globe, has grown to 27 countries and continues to attract more countries.

In the meantime, member states become closer together. In spite of the different cultures, traditions and languages, which they retain and cherish, these countries unite under one flag when it comes to the rights of each European individual.

There is indeed good reason to celebrate and rejoice.

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