Other events in Baltic States

Marking its 28th anniversary of independence, Ukraine has conferred its state decoration – the Order of Princess Olga First Class - on European Parliament member Sandra Kalniete, the MEP’s aide Elina Bivina informed LETA.

“I am deeply touched, grateful and honored by the appreciation Ukraine has shown to me, which obliges me to continue active work in the Eastern Partnership framework, strengthening ties between Ukraine and the European Union. I have always admired the Ukrainians for their resolve to defend the independence of their country and right to choose the European path for their state. This is not an easy path – it takes endurance, perseverance and also sacrifices. But the Ukrainians have demonstrated their heroism to the world to keep their rights to choose the future of their state,” the Latvian politician said after receiving the decoration.

Kalniete is one of 24 diplomats and politicians from various countries that have received Ukraine’s state awards under a decree issued by Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelensky on Ukraine’s independence anniversary. Kalniete is the only recipient representing Latvia and the European Parliament.

The Order of Princess Olga, established in 1997, is a Ukrainian civil decoration bestowed to women for "personal merits in state, production, scientific, educational, cultural, charity and other spheres of social activities, for upbringing children in families"