9th of May is Europe day

On this day we celebrate peace and unity in Europe. On 9th of May 1950 the French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman proposed pooling of French and West German coal and steel industries, leading to the creation of the European Coal and Steel Community. This was the first step towards creation of the European Union. Many things have changed since 1950. Yet united by the European flag we enjoy peace and face common challenges.

Interesting facts about the European Union:

• Population of the EU is almost 500 million (7.3% of the world population)
• Europe is the second smallest continent
• Most scholars believe Europe was named after Europa, a Phoenician Princess in Greek mythology
• "Ode to Joy" is the anthem of the European Union (based on the final movement of Beethoven's 9th Symphony composed in 1823)