Metsola’s message for 2023 is one of unity and strength, in spite of all the struggles that the global sphere has endured, she is hopeful that the European Union will emerge stronger than ever.

“2022 has been a difficult year for Europe. We were tasked to deal with the tailwinds of the pandemic, a perfect storm of climate change, inflation spiking and energy supplies dwindling,” she began.

“All this against a backdrop of war on our continent with the brutal invasion of Ukraine and political uncertainty that risks driving more and more people to the comfort of the fringes.”

Despite all of these hardships, the EU, she says, has been able to tackle the multitude of crises thrown at it effectively.

“I know that despite all of this, the storm continues to rage on. Families are still struggling to make ends meet. Young people are still worrying about their present and their future. And brave Ukrainians are still risking their lives on the battlefield for our freedom.”

“But if history, and this year especially, has shown us anything, it is that the European Union comes out of crises stronger and more united. And so I am convinced that together we can do it.”

In 2023, Metsola stressed that the EU needs to deliver on several aspects within Europe.

“We need a return to growth, bringing our bills under control, pushing back against inflation, and making sure the green and digital transitions continue in earnest. We need to ensure g that our economy, our environment and our security are seen as equally essential. ”

“And in 2023 we need to double down on protecting our values: freedom, democracy, justice, equality, solidarity and the rule of law. These are what underpin our open societies and our open markets. Without them, we have nothing.”

“Most importantly,” she said “we will continue to stand with Ukraine. For peace with liberty, peace with dignity and peace with security.”

Ultimately, Metsola wants to see the power of Europe on a continued trail of progression in order for it to make positive differences in its member states and the world. She wants to see it “transform in ways that will enable us to better address future problems”.

Most importantly, however, she wants the upcoming year to “remind us all that as Europeans, there will always, always, remain so much more that unites us rather than divides us.”

Did this message instil hope in you for the New Year?