Austrian Christmas tree brings pre -Christmas atmosphere to Brussels

Austrian Christmas tree brings pre -Christmas atmosphere to Brussels

Brüssel, Belgien - A festive splendor fulfills the European Parliament in Brussels: For the 27th time, a magnificent Christmas tree from Austria was erected, which not only spreads a pre -Christmas mood, but also symbolizes the deeply rooted connection of Austria to the European Union. The 4.2 meter high and 17-year-old Nordmann fir comes from the sustainable agriculture of the König family from Maria Laach am Jauerling and has been transported to Brussels with the ÖBB Nightjet. ÖVP MEP Alexander Bernhuber, who organized the handover, said: "The decorated tree is a pre-Christmas greeting that is reminiscent of us, especially in this hectic time, that Advent is a phase of reflection."

The ceremonial handover of the tree was accompanied by numerous prominent guests, including Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner and the new EU commissioner Magnus Brunner. Father Altmann Wand took over the blessing of the tree from the parish of Pielachtal in Lower Austria. Bernhuber also emphasized the important role of regional products and emphasized: "This Christmas tree recognizes the work of the rural family businesses that ensure our food supply and maintain our rural areas." The tradition of setting up a real tree in the European Parliament was launched in 1998 by the then MEP Agnes Schierhuber after a plastic tree was previously used, as from Kleine Zeitung reported.

a symbol of connection

The Christmas tree handover is more than just a festive act; It also stands for the values ​​and traditions that are celebrated during the Advent season. The green EU MP Thomas Waitz reminded of the Christian values ​​in a video message by saying: "Jesus was also a refugee." The tree is a sign of hope and cohesion and is intended to serve as inspiration to draw new strength from the contemplative days. As OTS , the ceremony was handed over the particularly festive framework that merges the guests and illustrates the importance of Christmas time.