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Professor Amable Liñán, Prince of Asturias Award for Technical and Scientific Research, is the
best example of that University that we desire. His work, based on the solution of mathematical
problems associated with basic and applied aspects of the mechanics of fluids, makes him one of
the most brilliant theoreticians in this area in the international field. The application of his theories
to combustion is recognized by today’s authorities in this field, who do not hesitate to point out his
mastery.
In his work centre at the Polytechnic University of Madrid, he is loved by his students and
respected by his colleagues. They all admire his unselfish dedication to teaching, the high level of
this teaching and his human qualities as a simple, caring man and a tireless worker.
From the Cuba which was so closely bound throughout history to the feelings and affection of
Spaniards, there comes the example of a man who is today a symbol for all the young people who
are lovers of sport in all the countries in which our language is spoken.
Javier Sotomayor, Prince of Asturias Award for Sports, represents the legendary challenge of
human beings to surpass themselves. Since the early days of his youth, this extraordinary sportsman
has made sacrifices and renunciations, the foundations of a life dedicated to sport, in which he
has reached the highest levels amidst respect and admiration, always being a friend to his friends,
generous to everyone and humble in his success.
His presence here today gives me the opportunity to send my warmest greetings to all Cubans.
The Prince of Asturias Award for Social Sciences to Silvio Zavala extols the profound, extensive
research work of this great historian, born in that country which we love so much, Mexico.
Dr Zavala understands history as a tireless dialogue with the
past in order to enlighten its enigmas and, at the same time, he
considers it unrenounceable to say what is believed to have been
found. Objectivity and profoundness, intellectual precision and
coherence stand out in his untiring research efforts.
FriarBartoloméde lasCasas, towhomZavaladedicatedbrilliant
research, wrote that the right understanding of problems is only
achieved “if you dig very deeply until you find the foundations”.
Silvio Zavala has dug very deeply until he has found the real
history of the presence of Spain in America after the Discovery.
In this way, he has shattered many clichés, slanted interpretations and misunderstandings about one
of the most thrilling adventures of mankind in which the Spanish played the leading role.
His contribution to the brotherhood between the Spanish-American peoples will therefore
remain among us as the best legacy from this man who has always wanted to educate in truth and
honour.
“We have learnt to fly like birds, to swim like fish, but we have not learnt the art of living together,
like brothers.” These fine words from one of the pioneers of the defence of human rights rise up
accusingly in the presence of the bloody, intolerant, hate-filled events which are destroying the
former Yugoslavia.
There, the soldiers from the United Nations, the Blue Berets, Prince of Asturias Award for
International Cooperation, are carrying out a humanitarian taskwhich has savedmany lives, relieved
suffering and has oftentimes been the only source of hope amid despair and fear. Their hazardous
mission, together with that of the non-governmental humanitarian organizations, is the highest
expression of solidarity and reminds us of the words of the Spanish bishop Pedro Casaldáliga, who
wrote that “only he who suffers with those that suffer, he who loses in favour of those that have not,
he who risks himself with those who live with the risk of death, only he is caring.”
It fills us with pride to know that among these soldiers are those of our Army, who, as His
Majesty The King recently said, have always aimed to be where the most innocent victims are,
setting an example as opposed to those who made them victims.
We are moved by the self-denial, valour, dignity and generosity with which they carry out their
mission. They have managed to unite the Spanish people even more closely with their Army. The
“From this ceremony, which is so resolutely
inspired in extolling the best in human beings,
I unite my voice with those who are crying
out for reconciliation and end to violence.”
27
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ovember
1993
