P
rince
of
A
sturias
A
wards
1981-2014. S
peeches
5
We are aware that all change causes uncertainty. We shall undertake it by respecting identities and
with that same sense of solidarity that characterizes the European project.
This solidarity is based first and foremost on political identities that are the product of history.
Thus, Asturias combines a strong feeling of identity within the bosom of Spain with an undeniable
European facet. In this stance, I see a way forward that coincides very well with the European way
towards the future: identity and solidarity.
The European project rounds off this “natural” solidarity with solidarity amongst countries.
The cohesion of the present member states of the European Union remains one of my priorities. In
the future, the enlargement of the European Community to include Central and Eastern European
countries will be a new stage in the development of solidarity. We should also aim for success in this
sphere, for it offers a unique, historic opportunity to bring our continent together in reconciliation,
peace and democracy for the first time in four hundred years.
At the same time, we should tirelessly reaffirm the proof of European solidarity towards other
countries in the international community. Our model for growth and solidarity can constitute an
example for other parts of the globe, and our credibility will the greater, the more we support others
in times of difficulty. I would therefore like to avail myself of the opportunity provided me by the
presence of Emma Bonino, who has been equally honoured at this ceremony. I wish to express my
support for the exemplary work carried out under her guidance at the Humanitarian Office of the
European Community, which has contributed towards European Union humanitarian aid being
first in the world. Thanks to her, Europe has achieved a presence that is lacking in so many other
areas.
Jacques Santer
—
Prince of Asturias Award
for Social Sciences
1998
Jacques Santer was President of the
European Commission between 1995
and 1999.
—
Excerpt from the speech given on the
occasion of receiving the Prince of
Asturias Award for Social Sciences on
23/10/1998.
