It is an honour to be back at this conference and share some reflections with you.  Over the past year, I have had the pleasure to meet with many of you in your postings. I wish to begin by commending your professionalism. You are the face of European Union abroad. And you represent our Union with dedication. Thank you very much for your commitment.  I would also like to commend you, dear Kaja [Kallas], for your close cooperation with the European Council, together with the European Commission,