Berlin, July 17 (ANI): Germany has revoked its decision to award a prestigious political prize to Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, citing criticism in Europe.
Putin was to receive the Quadriga Prize for his role in improving relations between Russia and Germany.
But, six days after announcing that Putin will receive the award on German reunification Day in October, the Werkstatt Deutschland foundation cited 'massive criticism in the media and the political world' as the reason for rescinding it, The Telegraph reports.
"There will be no prize this year. We will see how it continues next year," a spokesman for the board of trustees that awards the Quadriga prize said.
Former Czech President Vaclav Havel, a recipient of the Quadriga prize awarded to 'role models for enlightenment, dedication and the public good' - threatened to fly into Berlin and return his own award in person if Putin received was honoured.
Cem ?zdemir, the head of Germany's Green party, announced he was stepping down from the board of the non-profit Quadriga in protest at the decision.
"In my view, the Quadriga prize should go to people who have done a particular service to democracy and its promotion. I do not see Vladimir Putin among those ranks," ?zdemir was quoted, as saying.
The decision to revoke the honour for Putin comes just days before German chancellor Angela Merkel meets Russian President Dmitry Medvedev to discuss deepening ties. They are due to meet on Monday and Tuesday. (ANI)
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