On the occasion of the 60^th anniversary of the signature of the Treaties of Rome, the European Commission organised a concert and reception with Cyprus Chamber Orchestra Concert to mark the occasion and to reflect on Europe's common future. The celebration took place on Wednesday, 26 April 2017 at Bedestan, Nicosia. The event started with the opening speech by Mr.George Markopouliotis, followed by the concert of Cyprus Chamber Orchestra.

The Treaties of Rome – signed by the six founding Member States – paved the way for the European Union that we know today: a reunited continent of peace, founded on the values of solidarity, democracy and the rule of law. Its Single Market ensures freedom of choice and movement, economic growth and prosperity for 500 million citizens. It is the largest trading bloc in the world and the biggest donor of development and humanitarian aid.

The Treaties of Rome established a common market where people, goods, services and capital can move freely and created the conditions for prosperity and stability for European citizens. Based on this foundation and the common values of democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights, the Union grew and reunited the continent after the fall of the Berlin Wall and ensured prosperity, social and economic well-being, and sustainability for 500 million citizens.

The EU is now a place where Europeans can enjoy a unique diversity of culture, ideas and traditions. Europeans have formed life-long bonds with each other and can travel, study and work across national borders. Europe is a pioneer of gender equality, with women's employment rate now at an all-time high. 6.5 million Europeans are currently working in another.