Policies for a sustainable development, planned on a Community level, could bring a significant increase in cultural and social dialogue among nations.

The integration of the European populations does not mean degradation and massification, but the development of reciprocal knowledge in respect of the different traditions present in the old continent. The variousness of European societies has caused a movement in which each country examines its own identity. Today these societies are marked by profound technological changes, by persistent economic uncertainties, by growing ecological dangers. Rising unemployment, nationalisms and fundamentalism regenerate, new xenophobia and at the same time there is an aggravation in what we can call "ethical preoccupation".

In such shaky social circumstances, the new unions, formations and the expansion of the European community appear complex.

New tools and decisive political will are needed in regaining trust towards the possibility of carrying out the idea of a true "European Home". In this frame of mind, tourism can undoubtedly offer an effective contribution, as it favors populations to become acquainted with each other, and it urges talks towards a solid program of collaboration.

Today the industry of tourism is the only economic activity still tied to territory. For this reason it can be used as a privileged means for the re-discovery of historical and social roots of any ethnic group. At the same time it contributes to the rebuilding of social tissue often lacerated by local disputes and the temptation of nationalistic isolation.

It is important to reconstruct that solid "network of trust" that forms a social and moral capital to which the European Union, especially in the optic of extending its borderlines, must not give up. Tourism can activate a sense of solidarity and cultural respect , which are the principal strategic resources of sustainable development.

It is not enough to promote solely a concept of quality tied to the realization of services and infrastructures in the sector of tourism. This concept must be extended to the "quality of human relations".

Tourism can carry out an important role under the social aspect. I would like to add some important data regarding the economy.

Community statistics show that 5.5% of the PNL (National Gross Production) in Europe is generated by tourism. Tourism therefore reconfirms itself as one of the sectors with a high employment level. In fact, there are approximately nine million people employed in this sector.

On this subject, there are plenty of perspectives for a common working ground in order to promote the tourism industry. However, since the "European Home" is the spiritual and religious value depositary, these values cannot and must not be put out on the edge, and in light of history, they qualify as pillars for peace and well-being of people.

Thank you for your attention !