"You didn't just pay lip service to the goal of overcoming the division of Europe and Germany... Rather, you put yourself at the forefront of those who encouraged us on the way to unity"

In this quote, Helmut Kohl is praising somebody for their actions towards attaining unity in Europe and Germany. He acknowledges that this person did not just talk about the objective of overcoming department, but in fact took action and played a leading role in encouraging others to work towards unity. This shows that the individual was not simply making empty promises or paying lip service, but genuinely believed in and actively worked towards the goal. Kohl's words likewise suggest that this individual's efforts were essential in the journey towards unity, and they ought to be acknowledged and appreciated for their contributions.