I have lived in Europe, was born there actually, I am an Army brat and spent most of my life in France, Germany or Italy up through high school. My dad, a 35 year U.S. Army veteran, retired in Europe and left my brother and I two homes there. I spend about 4 months a year in Europe now, and my wife about 3 months a year. My daughter lives in Europe. My wife and I will be moving to live in one of those homes within the next 2-3 years.
I am just stating fact. Without integrating, the small and relatively wealthy European states would be prey to the existing and up and coming super states in terms of trade deals, regulations, standards, etc.