“This prize belongs to all the Greek citizens who work and create in innovative ways to overcome the crisis. It is important for all of us to make a fresh start to redefine our common European future,” main opposition New Democracy spokesperson Maria Spyraki stated on Thursday.

Spyraki received the “Member of the European Parliament of the Year” award in the category Industry, Research and Innovation.

Spyraki was chosen by the total of 751 MEPs, based on proposals made by bodies, civil organizations and associations representing Europe-wide industry and small and medium-sized enterprises.

She was distinguished in an open process based on her legislative activity and her presence in European and international fora, while she was the only Greek candidate among the 45 MEPs who reached the final stage of the competition.

In total, 15 MEPs were awarded in 15 different categories corresponding to the European Parliament’s committees.