According to the release signed by President Vladimir Putin, Lavrov, who is celebrating his 75th birthday this Friday, has long contributed to Russia’s politics.

The decree stated, “In recognition of his outstanding contribution to serving the Fatherland, his significant role in developing and implementing the foreign policy of the Russian Federation, and his long years of fruitful work in state institutions, Sergey Lavrov is awarded the country’s highest distinction.”

The award recognizes his 21 years of leading Russian diplomacy during turbulent times.

jrr/iff/npg/gfa