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Radio France Internationale
Radio France Internationale
World
RFI

Von der Leyen calls for 'independent Europe' as she receives Charlemagne Prize

European Union Europe Ursula von der Leyen Friedrich Merz The European Union
Ursula von der Leyen receives the Charlemagne Prize from Juergen Linden in Aachen, 29 May. © AP

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has received one of Europe’s highest honours for her role in steering the European Union through turbulent times. In her acceptance speech she called for a more self-reliant Europe in the face of 'imperial ambitions'.

Von der Leyen was honoured with the 2025 International Charlemagne Prize on Thursday in Aachen, Germany, in recognition of her steadfast leadership during a period of profound transformation for Europe.

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