Europe Day, 9 May, State of the Union debate, Florence
On Europe Day 2013, President Barroso attended the State of the Union conference, organised by the European University Institute.
He made a vigorous plea for action promoting growth and jobs, while continuing the path towards sound public finances. He highlighted the need to make rapid progress on banking union and the fight against tax evasion where he announced new Commission proposals. He also said that Europe's democratic legitimacy and accountability must keep pace with its increased role and power.