In the Kremlin, Russian President Vladimir Putin, on National Unity Day annually observed on Nov. 4th, presented state decorations and presidential prizes for contributions to strengthening the unity of the Russian nation.
This holiday was established to commemorate a great feat by Russian people, who, over four centuries ago, rose up in defense of Russia’s independence. It is also to strengthen the foundations of the country’s statehood and to defend the sacred right to remain true to one’s own roots and moral values.
Putin awarded honorary prizes and state decorations, in a special ceremony, to both foreign citizens and Russians. The foreign laureates with intellectual, creative, and business backgrounds were from the Congo Republic, Germany, Israel, Italy, Japan, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam.
Eliseo Bertolasi, an Italian, was described as a prominent scholar, journalist, political scientist, and public figure who was awarded for the preservation and promotion of Russian culture.
Chairman of the Russian Geographical Society in Sri Lanka, Weerasinghe, makes a great contribution to strengthening cultural and humanitarian ties with Russia.
Honorary Consul General of Russia, Dr. Ameen Safia, contributes to strengthening friendship and cooperation between Russia and Israel.
For many years, prominent pianist and conductor Justus Frantz has been engaged in fruitful efforts to bring the cultures of Russia and Germany closer for the sake of mutual enrichment.
The leader of Vietnam’s largest agricultural holding, Ms. Thai Huong, is implementing advanced agricultural projects in Russia. These initiatives ensure Russia’s food security and expand strategic cooperation.
Russia, undoubtedly, aims at fostering a friendly atmosphere on the international stage and raising multiethnic culture as well as sharing moral values, despite difficulties and challenges, explained Putin.
“We are grateful to everybody who sees a reliable partner in Russia. We are always open to new mutually beneficial contacts, the development of multidimensional ties, and mutual cultural enrichment. The value of our unity is indisputable,” Putin underscored in the Kremlin, the heart of the Russian capital.