We have had one knock out meal after another on a trip to Montreal, but highly recommend a newer Persian restaurant on Sherbrooke, called Bous, (which, incodentally, just got its liquor license yesterday). Really excellent
A bridge does not stand simply because it was built once. It stands because each generation chooses to maintain it, strengthen it, and carry others across. My deep gratitude to all who attended the Transatlantic Bridge Awards at the Residence last night, especially our awardees.
I'm excited to continue the #EuropeDay celebrations tonight with our annual Transatlantic Bridge Awards.
This is our chance to say thank you to the Americans who have supported the EU-US relationship and the values we share.
Here is who we are honoring tonight...👇
As part of our #EuropeDay celebrations, we honor those Americans who have greatly contributed to the transatlantic relationship.
On Wed, May 13, we will host the Transatlantic Bridge Awards to thank @ChrisCoons@GovCox@ddbprods & Jillian Manus @ShieldCapVC for their support. 🌉
#EUOpenHouse returns THIS WEEKEND for another year of special access to Washington's European embassies. Doors will be open from 10-4!
And this year, we're marking 250 years of American independence and transatlantic relations. Plan your route 👉 https://t.co/SfeS4LPurG!
The geopolitical changes happening on our respective continents demand close cooperation and knowledge-sharing. With five EU Commissioners in town for the IMF/WB #SpringMeetings, this is a high-level #TeamEurope pivot to D.C.
Sending them good luck this week.
After five weeks of war in the Middle East, it is clear that only a diplomatic solution will settle its root causes.
Any targeting of civilian infrastructure, namely energy facilities, is illegal and unacceptable. This applies to Russia’s war in Ukraine and it applies everywhere. The Iranian civilian population is the main victim of the Iranian regime. It would also be the main victim of a widening of the military campaign.
As I stressed in my recent call with the President of Iran, @DrPezeshkian, the European Union urges Iran to immediately put an end to its attacks against countries in the region and to allow for the reestablishment of full freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
Escalation will not achieve a ceasefire and peace. Only negotiations will, namely the ongoing efforts led by regional partners.
The cherry blossoms are still holding at Stage 5: Puffy White. Peak Bloom could be here in a day or two. Please:
🚶♀️🚴🏽🚇 Walk, bike, or take the Metro
💧 Bring water & snacks
🌸 Don’t pick the blossoms or climb the trees
#CherryBlossom#WashingtonDC
https://t.co/h04Gu0ksc1
The situation in the Middle East remains volatile.
But three things are clear:
First, there is renewed hope for the long-suffering people of Iran.
We strongly support their right to determine their own future.
Second, we must do everything possible to de-escalate and stop the conflict spreading.
Iran must cease its reckless and indiscriminate attacks on its neighbours and sovereign countries.
Third, the stability of the region is of the utmost importance.
The only lasting resolution is a diplomatic one.
This means a credible transition for Iran which includes the halt to both the nuclear and ballistic programmes, as well as an end to destabilising action in the region.
This afternoon, we will discuss the overall situation in the meeting of the Security College.
Because from energy to nuclear, migration to security, Europe must be prepared for the fall-out from recent events.
The death of Ali Khamenei is a defining moment in Iran’s history.
What comes next is uncertain. But there is now an open path to a different Iran, one that its people may have greater freedom to shape.
I’m in contact with partners, including those in the region that bear the brunt of Iran’s military actions, to find practical steps for de-escalation.
I will convene an extraordinary Foreign Affairs Council via video link on Sunday to address Iran and the rapidly unfolding events across the Middle East.
I have been in contact with our partners in the Gulf countries. The Iranian regime’s indiscriminate attacks against its neighbours carry the risk of dragging the region into a broader war and we condemn this.
It is essential that the war does not spread any further. The Iranian regime has choices to make.
The EU has taken the historic step of designating Iran's Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organization, as well as imposed new sanctions on Iranian individuals over human rights violations. We stand with the people of Iran.
The EU imposed further sanctions over human rights abuses in #Iran.
The decision follows the violent repression of the recent peaceful protests and arbitrary detentions.
In addition, the EU adopted sanctions in view of Iran's support to Russia’s war.
🔗https://t.co/OrD8aTBTXU
Territorial integrity and sovereignty are fundamental principles of international law.
They are essential for Europe and for the international community as a whole.
We have consistently underlined our shared transatlantic interest in peace and security in the Arctic, including through NATO.
The pre-coordinated Danish exercise, conducted with allies, responds to the need to strengthen Arctic security and poses no threat to anyone.
The EU stands in full solidarity with Denmark and the people of Greenland. Dialogue remains essential, and we are committed to building on the process begun already last week between the Kingdom of Denmark and the US.
Tariffs would undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral. Europe will remain united, coordinated, and committed to upholding its sovereignty.
Tehran’s streets, and cities around the world, echo with the footsteps of Iranian women and men demanding freedom.
Freedom to speak, to gather, to travel and above all to live freely.
Europe stands fully behind them.
We unequivocally condemn the violent repression of these legitimate demonstrations.
Those responsible will be remembered on the wrong side of history.
We call for the immediate release of all imprisoned demonstrators.
We call for the restoration of full internet access. And we call, at last, for fundamental rights to be respected.
In Damascus to meet President Al-Sharaa, together with President @vonderleyen.
After many years of war and suffering, the fall of the Assad regime finally offered some hope to the Syrian people.
We are here today to show the EU’s continued support to Syria.
There is still a long way ahead but you have already taken the first steps.
In Damascus today with @eucopresident.
After decades of fear and silence, Syrians began a long journey toward hope and renewal.
Europe will do everything it can to support Syria’s recovery and reconstruction.
The decision by the U.S. to impose travel restrictions on European citizens and officials is unacceptable and an attempt to challenge our sovereignty.
Europe will keep defending its values — freedom of expression, fair digital rules, and the right to regulate our own space.