The Italian President, Mr. Giorgio Napolitano awarded Dr. Andreas Pittas, former President of the Employers and Industrialists Federation and Member of The Cyprus Institute’s Board of Trustees with the medal of the Grande Ufficiale (Grand Officer).

This is the highest honor of the Italian Republic and was awarded to Dr. Pittas in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the development of friendly cultural and economic relations between Cyprus and Italy. The insignia were presented, in a solemn ceremony, at the Embassy of Italy in Nicosia by the Italian Ambassador Mr. Alfredo Bastianelli.

The Grande Ufficiale is the highest decoration in Italy to recognise civilian and military expatriates or foreigners who made an outstanding contribution to the preservation and promotion of national prestige abroad, promoting friendly relations and co-operation between other countries and Italy.

The order is bestowed by decree of the President of the Republic, head of the order, on the recommendation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Italian ambassador referred to Dr. Pittas’ close trade ties with Italy and expressed his appreciation for supporting cultural events and activities of the Italian Embassy over the past ten years. The ceremony was attended by government officials and distinguished personalities from the Cypriot community.

The Cyprus Institute cordially congratulates Dr. Pittas for the honour he has been awarded.