European Neighbours' Day

"Solidarity and proximity occupy a prominent place in the action of this Commission. I myself am very committed in favour of greater social cohesion and inclusion, which are an essential part of any democratic and dynamic society. Your initiative is a concrete example of solidarity and the fight against exclusion, it is therefore without hesitation that I renew my patronage of it."age of the European Commission.

Mr Vladimir SPIDLA, Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities

"By encouraging the inhabitants of a same building or street to get together around a lunch or dinner, to speak to each other and to share their experiences, concerns and interests, the European Neighbours' Day initiative fosters solidarity, friendship and cohesion in our cities. On a different level, the EUROCITIES network of large European cities is pursuing similar goals, as it encourages political and technical dialogue among its member cities, facilitates the exchange of expertise and good practices, and contributes to the emergence of common views among Europe's local governments. It is therefore natural for EUROCITIES to warmly support the European Neighbours' Day initiative."

Gérard Collomb, EUROCITIES President 2006-2008, Mayor of Lyon

"The European Parliament greatly supports all actions giving citizens the opportunity to interact and contributing to a better mutual understanding in European cities and a greater solidarity.

I am therefore happy to lend my patronage this year again to your event, which, in the framework of the 2009 European elections, aims at mobilising citizens".

Hans-Gert PÖTTERING, President

"Europe's role in assuring peace, creating the single market and tackling the challenges posed by globalisation has been profound. We have achieved these successes because we have worked together to foster community cohesion while also celebrating our diversity.

Through collaboration among citizens, by sharing experiences and being good neighbours, we are working together to forge an even closer and more human European community. It is the simple bonds between friends, families and neighbours which is the source of our vitality and strength.

Collaboration and partnerships are the keys to our shared success, both within our borders and within our neighbourhood. That is why the European Neighbours' Day initiative is so important, it brings us closer together to realise our common aspirations and to build networks of lasting friendships."

Mr Luc Van den BRANDE, President

"As social housing providers, our vision is of a Europe where communities are socially, economically and environmentally sustainable and where all are enabled to reach their full potential. European Neighbours' Day is a practical way to bring communities together and instil solidarity among neighbours and we encourage everyone to take part in an initiative that is improving neighbourhoods across Europe."

David ORR, President