The city of Gaziantep in southeastern Turkey has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Europe Prize, the highest honor given to a European city for its contributions to the European ideal. The announcement was made by the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE).
The Europe Prize is granted annually to the city that has demonstrated the greatest commitment to promoting European values. In its statement, PACE highlighted Gaziantep’s robust network of 25 sister cities, which include Duisburg (Germany), Celje (Slovenia), Ostrava (Czech Republic), and Braga (Portugal).
Gaziantep is recognized as an economic powerhouse, especially known for its textile and manufacturing industries. It also became the first city in Turkey to introduce a comprehensive action plan addressing climate change.
In addition to its economic and environmental achievements, the city focuses on sustainability, urban development, smart-city technologies, environmental conservation, and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
Gaziantep’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, with the city previously receiving the European Label of Excellence in Governance. It is also an active member of 28 international organizations, including Eurocities, Energy Cities, the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, and the Union of Municipalities of Turkey.
The Europe Prize, established in 1955 by PACE, includes a trophy, medal, diploma, and a grant for young people from Gaziantep to visit European institutions for educational purposes.
