John Bruton

The E.U. is more than just a trade organization or a common market it is a guarantee of democracy, freedom, justice, and human rights. Nations cannot stay in the E.U. if they do not respect these guarantees.

The U.S. - E.U. economic relationship dwarfs America's economic ties with China.

The European Union is the world's most successful invention for advancing peace.

Since creation of the E.U. a half century ago, Europe has enjoyed the longest period of peace in its history.

The E.U. has moved to combat global terrorism by instituting common European arrest and evidence warrants and creating a joint situation center to pool and analyze intelligence.

Of course the EU and member states must work to ensure that people moving from one country to another understand their obligations and their rights in areas like health, road safety and further education.

European investment in Texas alone exceeds all U.S. investment in China and Japan put together.