Ursula von der Leyen: Strong Europe for freedom and peace required

Ursula von der Leyen: Strong Europe for freedom and peace required

Aachen, Deutschland - Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, was awarded the International Charles Prize 2025. This price is traditionally awarded to personalities who have made a name for the agreement of Europe and is considered one of the most important awards for merits about European GED. The award took place in the Aachen town hall, where Leyen was recognized as a "strong voice of Europe in the world". This award emphasizes its ability to keep Europe together in challenging times, especially in view of the aggressive foreign policy of Russia and the inner threats of extremists and populists, as from the report of n-tv .

In her acceptance speech, the Leyen pointed out the need to create an independent Europe that advocated freedom and security. She warned of the illusion that everything could develop again as before, and addressed the geopolitical tensions and the threat of imperialist powers. The conflict in Ukraine was cited as an example of the dangers that threaten Europe's democracy and security. This corresponds to the observations of BR , which describes the risks and challenges.

investments for the future

from the Leyen also demanded that Europe have to invest more in its security. She predicted that a new international order will crystallize in this decade, which must be actively designed by Europe. In this context, she expressed the desire for a firmer trading partnership with the United States in order to use the economic potential of Europe in global trade. Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirmed these ambitions and praised the role of Europe as a successful peace project.

The prize money associated with the Charlemagne Prize is one million euros and is to be used to help Ukrainian children in need. The prize money is awarded in cooperation between the award winners and the Charles Prize Directorate. The decision to use these funds will have a direct influence on future pro -European projects.

A look at the awarding story

The international Charles Prize was donated by Aachen citizens after the Second World War and, after Emperor Charles, is named the Great, who made Aachen his preferred residence. Former winners of the Charlemagne Prize are important personalities such as Konrad Adenauer, Winston Churchill and Jean-Claude Juncker. The last time this prize was awarded to a commission chief in 1992 to Jacques Delors. The last German award winner was Martin Schulz in 2015. The award is usually awarded on the Ascension Day and is a sign of cohesion in Europe, special emphasis is placed on the recognition of merit about European agreement, such as KN-Online reported.