IRON CURTAIN ANNIVERSARY

Merkel recalled the importance of 'humane'

German Chancellor Angela Merkel recalled the importance of a "humane" Europe Monday as she took part in commemorations in Hungary to mark the 30th anniversary of a pivotal moment in the fall of the Iron Curtain in 1989.

Speaking alongside her Hungarian counterpart Viktor Orban -- with whom she has clashed in recent years over the issue of migration -- Merkel said the "Pan-European Picnic" held at the Austro-Hungarian border in 1989 reflected the values of "solidarity, freedom and a humane Europe". The two leaders were addressing a church service in the city of Sopron to mark the anniversary of the picnic, during which at least 600 East Germans crossed the border and escaped to freedom in the West.

 

IRON CURTAIN ANNIVERSARY

Merkel recalled the importance of humane

German Chancellor Angela Merkel recalled the importance of a humane Europe Monday as she took part in commemorations in Hungary to mark the 30th anniversary of a pivotal moment in the fall of the Iron Curtain in 1989. Speaking alongside her Hungarian counterpart Viktor Orban -- with whom she has clashed in recent years over the issue of migration -- Merkel said the Pan-European Picnic held at the Austro-Hungarian border in 1989 reflected the values of solidarity, freedom and a humane Europe. The two leaders were addressing a church service in the city of Sopron to mark the anniversary of the picnic, during which at least 600 East Germans crossed the border and escaped to freedom in the West.