OVIEDO, Spain (AFP) — Ingrid Betancourt, the Colombian politician released this year after six years as a rebel hostage, was on Wednesday awarded the Prince of Asturias Concorde prize, the foundation announced.

"Ingrid Betancourt personifies all those in the world who are deprived of liberty," the Asturias jury said in a statement announcing the award.

"I feel very emotional on hearing this news. I know that I don't deserve such an honour but I receive it with respect and much humility," Betancourt said in a statement.

"I see this marvellous occasion as a good omen for that which deserves (such a prize), my beloved homeland, Colombia, eager for peace and harmony," she said.

The Prince of Asturias Awards are given each year by the Fundacion Principe de Asturias to individuals and groups from around the world for their achievements in the sciences, humanities and public affairs.

Winners receive a prize of 50,000 euros (70,000 dollars) and a sculpture by Catalan artist Joan Miro.