EU’s Top Official Honored with Prestigious Aachen Karl Prize
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has been awarded the prestigious Aachen Karl Prize, a recognition of her outstanding service to the European Union and its unification. The prize was presented at a ceremony in the Krönungssaal of the Aachen City Hall, where German Chancellor Friedrich Merz delivered a laudatory speech.
Merz praised von der Leyen, saying she embodies a strong Europe and her leadership in current trade negotiations with the United States and China is a testament to her unwavering commitment to the European Union’s interests. He commended her for being a strong and self-assured representative of the EU, with its 450 million citizens and the world’s largest single market.
The Chancellor also emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong, united Europe, stressing that Germany will not stand on the sidelines when it comes to defending freedom, democracy, the rule of law and human dignity on the continent. He spoke of a “new spirit of cohesion” among European states, a sentiment shared by von der Leyen.
The Aachen Karl Prize, established in 1950, is awarded annually to individuals who have made significant contributions to European unity and integration. Named after Charlemagne, the prize’s namesake is often referred to as the “Father of Europe.”
Von der Leyen was selected for her outstanding work as President of the European Commission, recognized for her efforts in promoting the unity of member states, combating the pandemic and fostering a united defense against Russia, as well as her initiatives on the Green Deal and her encouragement of the EU’s future challenges.