Federal President Joachim Gauck has congratulated the Presidents of the European Council, the European Commission and the European Parliament on the award of the Nobel Peace Prize 2012 for the European Union:

"The European Union is a historically unique project dedicated to peace and freedom. Mindful of their past, its member states and citizens have, by common resolve, formed a strong and permanent union in the interest of European unity. With this award, the Nobel Committee has paid tribute to the tremendous contribution the European Union has made to peace in Europe.

That this award has come at a critical juncture for the European Union is a great encouragement. It helps people appreciate more clearly how important an integrated Europe is. Through this union Europeans manifest their commitment to peace and freedom, justice and security, diversity and tolerance. Rejecting hate and enmity, they stand up for one another and others, too.

Today’s decision by the Nobel Committee sends an important message that a united Europe can contribute in a special way to making the world a more peaceful place. This is a responsibility everyone in Europe shares. It is a responsibility that also Germany will live up to both now and in the future."