In his keynote address at the ceremony, Mr. Annan spoke of the many serious issues facing the world, including terrorism and the threat of infectious disease. He commended Mrs. Mohn for building bridges and encouraging mutual understanding among nations and cultures to overcome worldwide challenges. Trust among individuals, he said, forms the basis for solving problems.
"You are indeed a global citizen. You serve the world well by serving your nation, and you serve your nation well by serving the world," Mr. Annan said. He added that Mrs. Mohn's and the Foundation's work helps prevent conflicts through inter-cultural contact. This reflects the fact that "there is much more that unites us than divides us."
Mr. Enders said that Mrs. Mohn combines personal friendship and social consciousness to be effective. He noted that "human values must have a place in the way we measure prosperity," which reflect Mrs. Mohn's approach to her "outstanding promotion of trans-Atlantic relations."
During the award ceremony, Mr. Enders read two messages of congratulations to the audience of more than 450 people. Former U.S. President George H.W. Bush sent his compliments to Mrs. Mohn for her contributions to a pivotal issue for the United States. German Chancellor Angela Merkel also thanked the Foundation's Vice Chairwoman for her contributions to bring Germans and Americans closer together.
In her acceptance speech, Mrs. Mohn emphasized the personal approach necessary for increasing global understanding. "Our attitudes of humanity and tolerance should be embodied in the respect we bring to people of other cultures and nationalities," she said. Mrs. Mohn expressed her gratitude for being the first woman to win the award and reminded the audience that the role of women in shaping social interaction has long been underestimated.