French President awards Legion of Honour to U.A.E. envoy

PARIS: French President Francois Hollande has awarded U.A.E. Ambassador to France Mohammed Mir Al Raisi the Legion of Honour (Commander), the highest national decoration in France, in recognition of his significant contributions to the advancement and enhancement of ties between the U.A.E. and France. Jean Pierre Sellal, Secretary General of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, presented the U.A.E. envoy with the prestigious order during a celebration at the Ministry's premises. In his address, Sellal said the Government of France was grateful to the services Mr. Al Raisis offered to strengthen the U.A.E.-France strategic ties. ''This recognition crowns the efforts you have made and the success of your mandate in Paris and renews your deep and sincere friendship to our country, its language and culture,'' he said, addressing Al Raisi. In his acceptance remarks, the envoy expressed his profound thanks and gratitude to the French president for conferring the honour on him. He said that he was privileged to work in Paris, where he touched the sense of ancient history, value of beauty and rich culture of France. – Emirates News Agency, WAM – Read more: http://www.wam.ae/en/news/emirates/1395267508017.html