Today 20 February, a formal ceremony was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to present crosses of service for the first time. The crosses of service were awarded to recognise former and current diplomats, journalists specialising in foreign relations, several former foreign ministers and notable figures who have made a significant contribution to reinforcing Estonia’s independence and advancing Estonia’s interests in the world.
“I am very grateful to the people who have put their hearts into analysing Estonia’s future in the world, worked towards ensuring that Estonia’s security is protected, supported Estonian companies in export markets and represented Estonia in the world,” Foreign Minister Reinsalu said. He added that people like these were the backbone of Estonian statehood. “We only have one Estonia to cherish and love. Estonia is stronger thanks to people like them,” the foreign minister said.
In total, 34 people from Estonia and abroad were recognised for their services to supporting Estonia’s independence and interests in the world. One of the aims of the event was also to celebrate the strength of Estonia’s foreign service.
The recipients of the Crosses of Service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2020
1. Alar Streimann
2. Andres Põder
3. Arnold Aljaste
4. Arvo Valton (pen name of Arvo Vallikivi)
5. Clyde Kull
6. Dea Hannust
7. Enn Eesmaa
8. Enn Kunila
9. Erkki Bahovski
10. Hando Runnel
11. Hans H. Luik
12. Indrek Laul
13. Ivan Makarov
14. Jana Vanamölder
15. Jenik Radon
16. Jüri Luik
17. Jüri Trei
18. Kaja Tael
19. Karmo Tüür
20. Katrin Saarsalu
21. Mall Mälberg
22. Mari-Ann Kelam
23. Marje Massa
24. Mart Meri
25. Mihkel Mutt
26. Philippe Jourdan
27. Raul Mälk
28. Sonny Aswani (full name Narinder Kumar Aswani)
29. Sulev Kannike
30. Sven Jürgenson
31. Sven Sakkov
32. Tiit Põder
33. Toomas Luman
34. Urmas Paet
Photos (Marko Mumm): https://flic.kr/s/aHsmLvMNUU
Additional information:
Britta Tarvis
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Estonia
Communication Department
[email protected]
+372 637 7627 / +372 5194 7045
