Turkish city Gaziantep named winner of 2025 Europe Prize
Tourism is experiencing a surge in Gaziantep, one of the leading cities in southeastern Turkey, known for its historical sites and rich gastronomy. (AA Photo)
The southeastern Turkish city of Gaziantep has been selected as the winner of the 2025 Europe Prize, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) announced Tuesday. The award is presented annually to the city that demonstrates the strongest commitment to advancing the European ideal.
In its statement, PACE noted that Gaziantep is twinned with 25 cities, including Duisburg in Germany, Celje in Slovenia, Ostrava in the Czech Republic and Braga in Portugal.
“It is a key economic hub, known for its industrial sector, particularly in textiles and manufacturing, and is the first city in Türkiye to implement an action plan against climate change,” said the statement.
PACE highlighted that Gaziantep also prioritizes sustainability, urban planning, smart city technologies, environmental protection, and the quality of life for its residents.
This isn’t Gaziantep’s first European award
The statement noted that Gaziantep had previously received the European Label of Excellence in Governance and is part of 28 international networks, such as Eurocities, Energy Cities, the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, and the Union of Municipalities of Türkiye.
Established by the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe in 1955, the Europe Prize is the highest honor a city can receive for its efforts in promoting European values.
The award includes a trophy, medal, diploma, and a grant for young people from the winning city to visit European institutions.
