Published in English by the Romanian Academy, the book contains essays published by Daniel Daianu in the journal Southeast European Times between 2002-2007. These essays are divided into four chapters: The world we live, Which way goes the European Union, Romania's journey to the EU and The Balkans and the EU.

Professor Bronislaw Geremek remarked that the book reflected the realistic and visionary perspective that the author has on the European Union: "I share with you the idea of a fatigue of the Western Europe's enlargement as well as the expectations from an enlarged European Union. And referring to this last topic, I think that you are perfectly right when you say that solidarity is a sign of political wisdom and an essential personality feature for statesmanship. Also, I support the concerns that you outline regarding the so-called economic patriotism", added Bronislaw Geremek.

Graham Watson praised Daianu for his timely book launch in a period when the Western Balkans are very much in the news:

“Recognised internationally for his extensive research on global economics and the transition to market economies but, as Romania's former finance minister, and a high level advisor, Daniel Daianu is one of the few high profile academics who has been able to put his vision into practice, at national and now European Level. This volume shows how South Eastern Europe can contribute to the goals of regional cohesion and development that are a founding principle of the European Union".

Hannes Swoboda (Vice-Chairman of the Socialist Group in the European Parliament), Sorin Frunzaverde (MEP, Group of the European People's Party) and Adrian Severin (MEP, Socialist Group in the European Parliament), who attended this event, also praised Daniel Daianu's book.

See a video (in Romanian) about this event

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