The President of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu, has signed a decree awarding the “Order of the Republic” to the former President of Georgia, Salome Zurabisvili. The distinction comes in recognition of her commitment to defending democratic values, promoting human dignity, respecting human rights and supporting Georgia’s European path, the presidential decree says, IPN reports.
Salome Zurabisvili served as President of Georgia from 2018 to 2024, the first woman to be elected to the post in the state’s history. Born in Paris to Georgian émigrés, she had a diplomatic career in France before becoming involved in Georgian politics. She has been an active voice in favor of European integration and the rule of law in a tense political context in the region.
In recent months, Georgia has faced widespread protests against a controversial draft law on “foreign agents”, seen by civil society and international partners as a step towards authoritarianism, similar to legislation promoted by the Kremlin. Salome Zurabisvili has publicly criticized the draft law and personally participated in street protests in Tbilisi, joining thousands of citizens demanding respect for democracy and the country’s European course.
The “Order of the Republic” is the highest state distinction of the Republic of Moldova and is awarded for exceptional merits in the interest of the nation and humanity.
