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Individual liberty releases creativity and enterprise, generating progress and prosperity. The NATO alliance thrives as a source of hope to enshrine the vital value of human liberty. It is because of this important value, the NATO Council of Canada (NCC), has had the privilege to award exceptional individuals for their selfless contribution to international peace and security.
The NATO Council of Canada introduced this Annual Award for Exceptional Contribution to International Peace and Security in 2007.
Each year, the award recognizes a person who has made a significant contribution to international peace and security, and to furthering the values the founding members set forth in the North Atlantic Treaty: “to safeguard the freedom, common heritage and civilization of their peoples, founded on the principles of democracy, individual liberty and the rule of law.”
It is our honour and privilege to have Troels Frøling, as this year’s recipient. A man who vigorously promotes article two of The North Atlantic Treaty, by educating and informing the public regarding NATO’s missions and responsibilities, supporting the development of civil society in the Black Sea area and the Caucasus, pursuing a dialogue with countries bordering the Mediterranean and in the Middle East which work in cooperation with NATO, and engaging with civil society groups which support peace and security.
For nine and a half years Troels Frøling as Secretary General of the Atlantic Treaty Association (ATA), acted as a facilitator for developing a strong relationship among NATO members and organizations in an effort to realize common interest, and achieve common goals. He will continue his efforts as Vice President of the ATA, a position to which he was elected at the 58th General Assembly in Rome on February 5.
In the past, the NCC has rewarded past recipients, such as General Bouchard, Capt. (Ret’d) Trevor Greene, and General (Ret’d) R.J. Hillier, for their military might and capabilities. This time, we are giving Troels Frøling the Exceptional Contribution to International Peace and Security Award for his human and social capabilities as Secretary General of the ATA. We wish to recognize the important role of civilians, which was exemplified by our first recipient Chris Alexander ―Canada’s former ambassador to Afghanistan.
The development of peaceful and friendly international relations by strengthening free institutions and promoting conditions of stability and well-being is important to the continued growth of NATO.
With the Canadian government pursing free trade with the European Union, it is even more fitting we celebrate and reward the numerous achievements of Troels Frøling―a European. It is our partnership and collaboration with our European counterparts, which has created international institutions to help promote the common values of individual liberty, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. Our common essential and enduing purpose has safeguarded the freedom and security of NATO members. Troels Frøling has ensured cooperation and common principles are at the forefront of the transatlantic community―he is truly an inspiration to all.
Please join us at our annual tribute dinner, to help celebrate the work of an important figure within the transatlantic community.
May 15, 2012
Strachan Hall at Trinity College
6 Hoskin Avenue, Toronto
