The Lisbon treaty reform process has taken eight years. Since the Single European Act of 1986 the Community has been in a continuous state of institutional reform and treaty changes. For the first time in the history of the modern European Union there are no plans now for another round of intergovernmental negotiations for basic treaty changes.

After so many large projects – particularly the treaty process and the biggest enlargement in the history of the Community – we need a period of consolidation. Our priority must be to make the Union stronger to face global challenges. Otherwise, we run the risk of being marginalised as a global player. The global influence of the EU cannot be enhanced without greater inner cohesion and progress.