On July 5, 2012, the embassy of Italy awarded the former head of the Ministry of Emergencies, and now the Governor of the Moscow Region, Sergei Shoigu, with the Knight's Military Cross - the highest award of the Order of Malta.
The Order of Malta is a mysterious organization, covered in centuries-old legends and traditions. It was founded at the beginning of the XII century in Palestine by the crusaders. Members of this monastic knightly order saw their mission in protecting and treating pilgrims in the Holy Land.
Over time, the Order of Malta transformed from a religious organization into a purely secular. His charitable work extends to more than 120 countries and is associated with the provision of humanitarian assistance to victims of natural disasters and military conflicts.
The highest award of the Order of Malta - the Knight's Military Cross - is awarded for mercy, help and salvation.
Sergei Shoigu was at the forefront of creating an emergency rescue service in Russia - the Ministry of Emergency Situations (Ministry of Civil Defense, Emergencies and Disaster Management), which he led for over 20 years. Thus, members of the Order of Malta decided to acknowledge the merits of the former Minister of Emergency Situations in providing assistance.
Handed to Sergei Kuzhugetovich Shoigu Knight's military cross Prince and Grand Master of the Order of Malta Matthew Festing. During the ceremony, he said that this award is a recognition of the contribution of Sergei Shoigu to the development of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Russian Federation and his role in strengthening friendly ties and cooperation between the Order of Malta and Russia. He also expressed confidence that the work launched by Shoigu will continue to develop for the benefit of all who need help.
In response, Sergei Shoigu thanked for such a high appreciation of the activities of the entire EMERCOM staff and said that he would try to continue and increase what had already been started in a new capacity.
Earlier, Sergei Shoigu was awarded the orders of the Hero of Russia and “For Merit to the Fatherland” II degree, as well as the medal “Defender of a Free Russia”, the Serbian Order of St. Sava I degree and many other awards.
