Antonio TAJANI, EP President, and Paul RÜBIG express themselves on the occasion of the handover of the Flame of Peace of Bethlehem.

TAJANI, Antonio (EPP, IT)

Strasbourg

ceremony

RÜBIG, Paul (EPP, AT)

handing over of the Flame of Peace

Handover of the Flame of Peace of Bethlehem in the presence of Antonio TAJANI, EP President

Opening of the ceremony of handover of the Flame of Peace of Bethlehem, (9 shots), musical intro and arrival of the EP President Antonio Tajani, welcome by Dr Paul R&uuml;big

SOUNDBITE (English), Paul R&#220;BIG (EPP, AU), Saying that at this moment in the European Parliament there is a good presence (looking to the guests) to receive the flame of Peace of Bethlehem.

SOUNDBITE (French), Antonio TAJANI, EP President, Saying that he thinks that this flame of Bethlehem is carrying a message of hope, it marks the triumph of light and will over darkness and resignation. This year in March we celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome, by celebrating an area of peace, liberty and prosperity never seen before on our continent.

SOUNDBITE (French), Antonio TAJANI, EP President, Saying 'Happy Christmas to all and also to those who are not believing, this light will help also those beeing part of other religions.

Applause, the candles are lit by the Flame of Peace, Mr. Antonio TAJANI, President of the European Parliament, shares his light with other Member of the House present at the ceremony, (14 shots)