Moscow, October 09, 2024 – The Europe Today: In a solemn ceremony held at the Kremlin, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko was honored with the Order of St Andrew the Apostle the First-Called, Russia’s highest state award. Russian President Vladimir Putin presented the prestigious accolade, recognizing Lukashenko for his significant contributions to the allied relations and strategic partnership between Russia and Belarus.
During the ceremony, President Putin emphasized Lukashenko’s exemplary commitment to fostering friendly ties between the two nations and advancing the effective development of the Union State. “Dear Aleksandr Grigorievich, you certainly deserve this highest award, which shows Russia’s gratitude for your exemplary contribution to the Russian-Belarusian relations of alliance and strategic partnership,” Putin remarked.
Putin highlighted the foundation of these relations, rooted in friendship, mutual respect, and shared history, which facilitates cooperation in defense, security, and economic development. He stated, “On such a solid foundation, Russia and Belarus are building the Union State, ensuring common defense and security. We have created a common economic, legal, and humanitarian space.”
The Russian leader acknowledged Lukashenko’s integral role in the establishment and strengthening of the Union State, as well as his unwavering support for close ties within the Commonwealth of Independent States. “Thanks to your active participation, mutually beneficial cooperation is developing within the framework of such organizations as the Eurasian Economic Union, the Collective Security Treaty Organization, and now, since Belarus became a member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, we can include this organization,” Putin noted.
Putin also reaffirmed the importance of continuous dialogue between the two leaders, expressing confidence that their collaboration will further enhance Russian-Belarusian cooperation and ensure the security of their shared Union State. He concluded the ceremony by congratulating Lukashenko on receiving the award and wished him good health and success in his leadership, alongside peace, stability, and prosperity for the Belarusian people.
The Order of St Andrew the Apostle the First-Called, established by Peter I in the late 17th century, is the highest state order of the Russian Federation and was re-established in 1998 as a recognition for exceptional services to Russia. Since then, it has been awarded to only 26 individuals, including notable figures such as China’s President Xi Jinping and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
