Pope Francis will on Friday receive this year's Charlemagne Prize for his work in favour of EU integration and unity.
The prize will be presented by last year's winner, European Parliament Speaker Martin Schulz, European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and European Council President Donald Tusk.
Announcing the prize in December, the jury lauded the message of "peace and understanding" sent by the pope in a key address to the EU as well as the "compassion, tolerance, solidarity and integrity which have characterised all his pontificate".
"At a time when many European citizens are seeking orientation, the Holy father sends a message of love and encouragement".
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