Hans-Dietrich Genscher

Former Foreign Minister
Germany

The Board of the M100 Sanssouci Colloquium presented the M100 Media Award 2009 to Hans-Dietrich Genscher in recognition of his services to Germany and Europe in fostering international peace and understanding and in overcoming the German and European divide.

“During his long time in office as Foreign Minister of the Federal Republic of Germany Hans-Dietrich Genscher advocated a policy of déténte between East and West”, said Jann Jakobs, Lord Mayor of the state capital Potsdam and chairman of the M100-Board. “Thus, not only did he contribute largely to the Fall of the Berlin Wall but also to Germany’s reunification. It was his appearances during Summer and Autumn 1989 that made him the figurehead of the German reunification in the eyes of many, and also a symbolic figure for understanding amongst the nations of the world. It is a great privilege for us to be able to honour his achievements in the process of the German reunification particularly in this year when we commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Fall of the Berlin Wall.

The organisers are delighted to announce that André Azoulay, who is the adviser to the King of Morrocco has agreed to address the conference in a keynote speech during the closing session. For the past 30 years, Azoulay has supported the struggle for peace and inter-religious dialogue in Europe, North America, Morocco, as well as in Arab and Jewish diasporas around the world. His achievements have been recognised by the French ‘Légion d’honneur’ by decorating him with their prestigious order, to name but one.

Main Speech: André Azoulay
Laudatio: Dr. Marek Prawda
Acceptance Speech: Hans-Dietrich Genscher