Brussels: The decision to award this year`s Nobel Peace Prize to US President Barack Obama is a tribute to his drive for a nuclear-free world, the head of the European Commission said Friday.
"The award of the prize to President Obama, leader of the most significant military power in the world, at the beginning of his mandate, is a reflection of the hopes he has raised globally with his vision of a world without nuclear weapons," said Jose Manuel Barroso.
"This award is an encouragement for engagement by all those who can contribute to bring about a safer world," Barroso said.
In congratulating Obama, the head of the European Union`s (EU) executive in Brussels said the award should also be seen as a tribute to his commitment "to the values of peace and progress of humanity".
"It is also a recognition of the expectations created everywhere by President Obama`s determination to work closely with the US` partners to shape global responses to the global challenges we face today," Barroso said.
Obama first spelled out his vision of a nuclear-free world during an April 5 visit to Prague, his first to Europe, on the sidelines of a summit with the EU.
"The existence of thousands of nuclear weapons is the most dangerous legacy of the Cold War," said Obama on that occasion. "The world must stand together to stop the spread of these weapons."
The president admitted that some would find his proposal naive and suggested that his vision for a world free of nuclear weapons might not be achieved in his lifetime.
IANS
