In 2007, when Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam has gone to the European Parliament, he has given a wonderful and delightful speech about the nation and an Individual. His speech has inspired everyone in the Parliament who has applauded for his inspiring speech. Kalam was given an opportunity to give a lecture or speech to the European nation in European Parliament. The speech would be one of the most memorable ones by Kalam, an impassioned plea to all humanity with words that would resonate for ages.

Thus Kalam has started saying that “I am indeed, delighted to be with the honorable Members of the European Parliament on the occasion of the Golden Jubilee year of the European Union. I was wondering what thoughts I could share with you. As you are aware, as a democratic nation India has experience in providing leadership to over one billion people with multi-language, multicultural and multi-religious systems. I wish to share this experience with you, friends.“

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European civilization has a unique place in human history. Its people were valiantly engaged in the adventure of exploring the Planet Earth, resulting in the discovery of many ideas and systems. Europe has seen the birth of pioneers in science, leading to the development of technologies. Europe was the theater of conflicts among the nations lasting hundreds of years, including the two World Wars. Now, with this backdrop and these dynamics, you have established the European Union with a vision of peace and prosperity for the entire region.

The European Union has become an example for connectivity among nations, probably with no possibility of war, leading to lasting regional peace. Before I started out on my journey to Europe, I was thinking: why are Europe and India unique and natural partners? Do we share a common history and heritage and, possibly in the future, a common destiny? This was the question. I was astonished by what I found: the depth and vitality of our inter-connectedness, through language, culture, ancient beliefs, ideologies and the movement of people have stood the test of time.

The European Union and India radiate a message to the world that regional cooperation and interregional collaboration will lead to a win-win situation for all, so that we can have a politically and socio-economically emergent civilization. Our contribution will be successful if, before the 21st century is over, we are able to make all regions transform into happy unions leading to the emergence of a world of unions. In this context, I am reminded of the dream of an Indian poet who said 3000 years ago in the Tamil classic: which means, ‘I am a world citizen. Every citizen is my own kith and kin’. He said those 3000 years ago.

Together we must address the root causes in order to find lasting ways to promote peace. How do we do that? We need a carrier of eternal goodness and wholesomeness in human conduct, which is called ‘righteousness’. As we say in India:

“Where there is righteousness in the heart

There is beauty in the character.

When there is beauty in the character,

There is harmony in the home.

When there is harmony in the home,

There is order in the nation.

When there is order in the nation,

There is peace in the world.”

President Kalam, on behalf of the European Parliament, I thank you for that important and inspiring speech. That was one of the most extraordinary speeches we have ever heard.