Video message by President von der Leyen on the 40th anniversary of Spain's membership in the European Union

Dear Spain,

Queridos españoles, queridas españolas,

Forty years ago, we marked a milestone in European unity, when Spain joined the European Union.

We had been separated by recent history. Then you chose a democratic future, and came back to your home, at the heart of Europe. It has been an incredible journey.

Your country has been transformed, from Asturias to Andalucia. Spain is now an economic powerhouse, with the second most advanced tourism economy in the world. And a pioneer in renewable energy and sustainable transport.

We have gained so much from working together. You have enriched Europe with your incredible culture and creativity. And you played a pivotal role in European integration, backing key common projects, like the euro currency, or enlargement.

Spain has helped Europe to become a world leader in renewable energy. Your companies do business across Europe. And in turn Europe has invested in Spain, focusing on what mattered for people. Like modernising your transport infrastructures. Building ultra-fast EV charging stations across the country. Protecting the Alhambra and the Camino de Santiago. Developing new hospitals, like A Coruña. Investing in social housing across your country. And delivering broadband to more than 7 million homes.

What a great story we are writing together! I wish you a very happy 40th anniversary of EU membership.

Long live Europe!