The organisation “Une Terre Culturelle” was awarded the Adenauer-de Gaulle Prize today (12 December) in Berlin. The prize was presented by Michael Roth, Germany’s Minister of State for Europe, and the French Ambassador Anne-Marie Descôtes. The winner of the prize receives 10,000 euros. “By concluding the Elysée Treaty in the 1960s, Federal Chancellor Konrad Adenauer and President de Gaulle of France sent a key political signal, setting the course for a profound friendship between erstwhile enemies. Since the Elysée Treaty entered into force, Franco-German relations have developed a unique depth and breadth. This is thanks to the countless initiatives launched by enthusiastic people on both sides of the border, many of whom have given their time and energy on a voluntary basis,” stated Minister of State Roth during the award ceremony. He went on to say that the new Treaty of Aachen will make our friendship “fit for the future”. In her speech at the event, the French Ambassador stressed that “Une Terre Culturelle supports travel and fosters intercultural exchange between young people from Germany and France, which is precisely in the spirit of the Treaty of Aachen.”

Background information:

The Adenauer-de Gaulle Prize has been awarded since 1989 to French or German individuals or institutions for outstanding services to Franco-German cooperation.

For almost two decades now, the NGO “Une Terre Culturelle” has, with the support of the Franco-German Youth Office (FGYO), organised special programmes for young people and young adults who cannot easily access international exchange programmes. “Une Terre Culturelle” also supports programmes for young volunteers from Germany and France, who spend time working for non-profit associations or other local or international partners.