Lee Kuan Yew presented with Russia's Order of Honour

By Robin Chan, The Straits Times, 7 Jan 2014

FORMER Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew yesterday received a top honour from Russia for his contributions in strengthening ties between the two countries.

He was presented with the Order of Honour at the Istana by Mr Leonid Moiseev, Russia's Ambassador to Singapore.

The award had earlier been conferred on Mr Lee by Russian President Vladimir Putin when he turned 90 last September.

The honour is "for his substantial contribution to strengthening friendship and cooperation with Russia and development of scientific and cultural relations", Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said yesterday.

Singapore and Russia "enjoy excellent relations", the MFA said, and this is underpinned by regular high-level exchanges between the two countries and through institutional links such as the Russia-Singapore Inter-Governmental Commission and the Russia-Singapore Business Forum.

"Singapore will continue to forge closer cooperation with Russia for the mutual benefit of our countries and peoples," it added.

The award is given to foreigners who have helped develop ties between their country and Russia, and to Russians who have contributed to their country.

Others who have received it include Spaniard Juan Antonio Samaranch, the late former president of the International Olympic Committee.

Post by People's Action Party.