Public Forum: “The European Union and its Relevance for Atlanta as a Global City”

11 May 2009 – 3:30-5:30pm

On May 9th, 1950, Robert Schuman, drawing inspiration from Jean Monnet’s vision for rebuilding Europe and uniting enemies through economic cooperation, presented the idea of creating an “organized” Europe known as the “Schuman Doctrine.” This effort later became the foundation of the European Union. And now, annually, Europe Day/Week is celebrated around the world. The EUCE along with partners from the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), the European Consular Corps and the French and German cultural organizations, led the commemorations in Atlanta.

The public forum, addressing the topic, “The European Union and its Relevance for Atlanta as a Global City,” was held on May 11, 2009 at Georgia Tech’s College of Management’s Le Craw Auditorium at Technology Square. EUCE Director, Dr. Vicki Birchfield made welcoming remarks, acknowledging the significance of Europe Day and the accomplishments of the EU project and then recognized the Czech Presidency of the EU, inviting Mr. George Novak, Honorary Consul General of the Czech Republic, to the podium. Next, Commissioner Kenneth C. Stewart, Department of Economic Development, offered comments underscoring the dynamic economic relationship between Europe and Georgia. These opening remarks were followed by a keynote speech by Mr. Anthony Smallwood, Head of Press and Public Diplomacy for the European Commission Delegation to Washington, D.C., entitled, “Transatlantic Relations Under a New Administration: Something New or More of the Same?”

Dr. Birchfield moderated, a panel discussion among Consular Corps members from Belgium, Greece, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany as well as the Executive Directors of the Alliance Française d'Atlanta, Goethe-Zentrum Atlanta, and the head of Global Business Development for the GDEcD.

Later that evening guests were invited to a dinner celebration featuring Czech cuisine and musical performances at the Carlyle House. A broad cross-section of Atlanta’s European community, supporters of the EUCE, and many other Europhiles and individuals whose work promotes ties between Georgia and Europe were in attendance for a marvelous evening of good food, cheer, and an eclectic mix of music from Czech opera to French rock-n-roll to Swedish folk songs. Vive l’Europe!

Additionally, please click here to view the GlobalAtlanta video of Senator Isakson and Mr. Smallwood’s discussion, “U.S. and EU Share Pains of Global Recession.”