French-Colombian politician Ingrid Betancourt, who was held hostage in a jungle by a rebel group for six years, received the Prince of Asturias award Wednesday for her" defense of human rights and fight against terrorism."
Betancourt felt "great excitement" for being given the award, which she dedicated to Colombian President Alvaro Uribe and many other Colombians who suffered like her.
The Colombian-French citizen told Colombian press in New York that she will receive the prestigious humanitarian award "with a lot of respect and humility."
"I dare to receive (the prize) in the name of my kidnapped companions, those who are awaiting their turn for freedom, and with a lot of love, in the name of my companions who will not comeback, those who died in the jungle," Betancourt said.
The former senator also said the president "was excited," after hearing the good news. "I told him that I dedicated the prize to him for the braveness he had (shown to carry out) a rescue where nobody died." she added.
Betancourt was kidnapped on Feb. 2002 by a rebel Colombian guerrilla group, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC).
After spending six years as a hostage in Colombia's jungles, she was freed by the Colombian military three months ago, along with 14 other hostages in a daring rescue operation.
The Prince of Asturias award jury decided to award Betancourt in a category that honors those who work for peace or fight poverty, injustice or disease, or otherwise endeavor to help mankind.
The other categories include sports, literature and communications.
"(Betancourt) personifies ... the defense of human rights and the fight against terrorist violence, corruption and drug trafficking," the jury said.
"I thought to pick up the universal voice, Ingrid is symbol of braveness, dignity and freedom." former Colombian President Belisario Betancur, who nominated Betancourt for the prize, said.
The Prince of Asturias award is given annually by Spanish Crown Prince Felipe's foundation to individuals and organizations from around the world who make notable achievements in the sciences, humanities, or public affairs.
The foundation hands out eight awards every year. Each prize consists of 50,000 euros (70,000 U.S. dollars), a sculpture designed by Spanish surrealism master Joan Miro and a diploma.
Betancourt will receive the prize in October in Spain.
Source:Xinhua
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