Moscow decorated Transnistrian separatist leader Igor Smirnov with the Dignity order, degree I, for strengthening friendship between peoples, developing democracy, consolidating Transnistria's position on international arena and close relations between Tiraspol and Russia.
Smirnov received the order yesterday, when he met with the World War II veterans in order to decorate them, in turn, for fighting against fascism. He told that the medal he got "represents the gratitude of the entire nation for being faithful to ideals".
The order was awarded in accordance with a decision of the Presidium Board for civil decorations of Russia. The Board was established on the initiative of the Political Advisory Center and is a representative of a similar UN structure in the Russian Federation. The Board comprises members of various organizations, associations, and funds. The decoration has a diamond in the center and is considered the highest reward given for important contribution to the security and development of the society.
Igor Smirnov is the sixth Russian citizen who got such a distinction in the history of the Russian Federation. Chisinau authorities have not commented for the time being on Moscow's gesture, which is a mediator in settling the Transnistrian conflict on the territory of the Republic of Moldova.
BASA-press