Berlin – On Thursday, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, was awarded the Charlemagne Prize for her leadership during challenging times. At the ceremony attended by Spain’s King Felipe VI, who called for support for the continent, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who committed Germany to leading peace restoration and defending Europe, von der Leyen emphasized the need for an “independent Europe.”
In a ceremonial setting within the Coronation Hall of Aachen’s City Hall, von der Leyen accepted the distinguished medal, now endowed with €1 million for the first time in its 75-year history. She plans to donate the prize to organizations aiding Ukrainian children who have been illegally deported to Russia and supporting minors affected by the ongoing war.
Among the attendees were previous Charlemagne Prize laureates including former EC President Jean-Claude Juncker, former European Parliament President Martin Schulz, exiled Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tihanovskaya, and Tatsiana Jomich, sister of imprisoned dissident Maria Kolesnikova, who displayed a sign reading “Freekalesnikava.”
The King’s Call for European Unity and Merz’s Defense
King Felipe VI opened the laudatio, advocating for European unity and warning against “dangerous and misguided voices” promoting the idea that separate national communities would lead to greater independence and sovereignty in facing global issues.
In a speech mostly delivered in English, with a greeting to von der Leyen in German, Felipe VI asserted that “Europe will only be powerful if it remains united,” emphasizing that collective efforts are essential for confronting challenges such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine and economic conflicts.
Merz echoed this sentiment in his address, stating that the European community’s “historical task” is to ensure Europe is strong enough to restore and maintain peace. He declared Germany’s readiness to assume leadership in this endeavor, coordinating closely with European partners, while also acknowledging the presence of Prime Ministers from Malta, Luxembourg, and Albania.
In her acceptance speech, von der Leyen expressed awareness of Europe’s historic moment, advocating for a new form of ‘Pax Europaea’ tailored for the 21st century in response to the “seismic changes” currently unfolding.
The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, greets King Felipe VI of Spain alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz after the Charlemagne Prize ceremony in Aachen, Germany, on May 29, 2025. EFE-EPA/FEDERICO GAMBARINI / POOL
Building an Independent Europe
“The world is once again characterized by the imperial struggle for power and imperial wars,” von der Leyen noted, alluding to authoritarian powers exploiting divisions and dependencies. She called for an “independent Europe,” emphasizing the need to “liberate oneself from the fear of change.”
She clarified that Europe’s management of its security and defense does not alter its relationship with NATO, but underscores a dedication to enhancing European defense capabilities, including a proposed rearmament plan worth up to €800 billion.
She stressed that the EU must prioritize innovation and competitiveness to regain a leading role in the global economy through a “master plan” focused on investment in innovation, artificial intelligence, environmental issues, industrial growth, and reducing bureaucracy.
Additionally, while advocating for resolution of the U.S. trade war, she reminded that 87% of global trade occurs with other countries.
Von der Leyen also highlighted the importance of progressing towards the “historic” reunification of Europe, as welcoming nations that choose to join the EU is vital for a stronger Europe, both domestically and in the global arena.
In conclusion, she urged attendees to stand and applaud, emphasizing the necessity to “renew and strengthen European democracies” against external threats, including the Russian menace and the “worrying” rise of extremist and anti-liberal trends. (May 29)
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