Economics, Education and Science, EU – Baltic States, History, Lithuania

The prize has been given to Dalia Grybauskaite for her contribution to uniting the European Union and building the economic stability of the whole of Europe. The Charlemagne Prize Committee said that Lithuania was an example of consolidation, dedication and success in overcoming the crisis and serious financial challenges.

"It is a very high evaluation of Lithuania and its people. I feel proud and delighted that our contribution to building the unity of Europe as a whole and working for its successful future has been recognized and assessed in such a distinguished way. It is especially important as Lithuania prepares to preside over the European Union in the second half of next year," the President said.

The President was informed about receiving the prestigious prize by phone by the Mayor of Aachen.

The Charlemagne Prize has been awarded since 1950 for special contribution to the ideals of Europe and to European unity. Among the recipients are the founding fathers of the European Union Konrad Adenauer, Robert Schuman and Jean Monnet; also Winston Churchill, Vaclav Havel, Bill Clinton, Franēois Mitterrand, King Juan Carlos of Spain, Angela Merkel, Tony Blair, Jean-Claude Juncker, and other prominent European and world leaders.

The Charlemagne Prize will be presented to President Dalia Grybauskaite on May 9, 2013, in Aachen, Germany.