ATLANTA….Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, winner of the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize and chair of The Carter Center, today publicly endorsed the nomination of Oswaldo Payá to receive the Prince of Asturias Award for Concord.

The award is given by the Prince of Asturias Foundation established by the Spanish monarchy to recognize those who contribute to fraternity, the struggle against injustice, and the defense of liberty.

"Oswaldo Payá is a man of courage who speaks out for all Cuban citizens to have a voice in their country's future," said President Carter in announcing his support. "His leadership of the Varela Project and Christian commitment to human rights deserve international recognition."

The Carter Center was founded in 1982 by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, in partnership with Emory University, to advance peace and health worldwide. A not-for-profit, nongovernmental organization, the Center has helped to improve life for people in more than 65 countries by resolving conflicts; advancing democracy, human rights, and economic opportunity; preventing diseases; improving mental health care; and teaching farmers to increase crop production.

####