Mattarella: “European values ​​do not allow moral compromises”

Universities stimulate "knowledge and discussion. I am convinced that constructive dialogue, a sense of the common good, ethical conduct, as well as a willingness to innovate and contribute to the accumulation of productive social capital, derive from this. These are indispensable prerequisites for economic growth in advanced states of law, such as ours. They are also manifestations of those fundamental values ​​that we share and that have shaped the European identity and do not allow moral compromises". This was stated by the President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella , speaking at the University of Coimbra, in his speech receiving the honorary degree in Economics.

"If I take our history as an example," the Head of State states, "it has been marked in some ways by stages of a similar journey. We have faced similar battles so that the ideals of democracy, freedom, respect for citizens' rights and political pluralism prevail in our societies, repudiating authoritarian and obscurantist regimes."

Mattarella recalls: "I have always found it particularly evocative that the respective anniversaries of April 25th unite the Portuguese and Italian people, celebrating their democratic path supported by the courage of their respective peoples".

Italy, Portugal and Spain, explains the President of the Republic, are also united by "the awareness of the economic importance of protected ecosystems, including marine ones, and of the need to safeguard all natural resources for the benefit of present and future generations, promoting their sustainable use, also thanks to new technologies".