Ion Lazarenco, who is the first man on Earth who managed to swim across seven most dangerous straits in the world on the first attempt, will be proposed by the Government of the Republic of Moldova for the Nobel Peace Prize. The decision was announced by Prime Minister Pavel Filip in a meeting with the athlete on January 22, IPN reports, quoting the Government’s press service.

Pavel Filip commended Ion Lazarenko for always hoisting Moldova’s flag even if he has lived in Ireland for many years, being thus Moldova’s ambassador abroad. “I think your deeds speak for themselves. We are obliged to praise those who brought added value to the country. In fact, the first message that each of us should promote is that the Republic of Moldova should be appreciated. We may not like the country’s administration, but are obliged to love the country,” stated the Premier.

Ion Lazarenko said he is proud of being a citizen of the Republic of Moldova, noting everyone should do something to change things and to build a prosperous country. He told about his experiences and unique moments lived while crossing the straits where he swam in extreme conditions, near sharks, in waters with very low temperatures and powerful currents.

Ion Lazarenko was named the Best Swimmer of Ireland for three consecutive years, becoming also the first man on Earth who overcame the seven most dangerous straits on his first attempt. In 2018, the athlete was named Man of the Year by the Word Open Water Swimming Association.