Speaker Charles Michel on the laureate:

“It’s possible to be a patriot of Sibiu, a patriot of Romania and a patriot of Europe. These superimposed affiliations enrich each and every one of us when we subscribe to the values of solidarity, freedom, and the rule of law. And these values naturally imbue us with a propensity for listening, respect and tolerance. Klaus, you are the living proof of this. As President of your country, you vigorously and fervently defend the respect and inclusion of all minorities. Listening, respect and tolerance are also essential at the European Council. There are no ‘big’ countries or ‘small’ countries there: everyone has the same say. The same ability to influence a decision. The discussions there are sometimes rough. And confrontation is part of democratic debate. It’s even useful. Because it allows us to move forward in our collective understanding, a key stage for taking joint decisions.”