The Russian Federation has announced the presentation of ‘Order of Friendship' award to noted Tamil novelist D. Jayakanthan.
Consul-General at the Consulate General of Russian Federation here M.A. Listopadov said the award was the highest civilian award presented to foreign nationals who promoted cultural ties between Russia and their countries.
“A friend”
Mr. Listopadov said his country was happy to have Mr. Jayakanthan as a friend. The writer had translated works of Russian author Pushkin in Tamil. The friendship between the two countries was deep- rooted and he played an important role in people-to-people diplomacy. Similarly, many of his works were translated into Russian and Ukrainian languages.
“This award will encourage him to continue his noble activities and further strengthen the ties between the two countries,” Mr. Listopadov added.
Mr. Jayakanthan said it was a great honour to receive the award from the President of the Russian Federation.
He said he wished to share the honour with all those who were with him in the Indo-Russian Cultural and Friendship Society. Russia was very helpful to India during times of need. The award provided another opportunity to further strengthen the ties between the two countries.
On Kudankulam
Mr. Jayakanthan said Kudankulam was a good example of India-Russia friendship. It was a project that could help Tamils. Though several doubts were raised, soon all of them would be sorted out. In science, mistakes once committed would not be repeated.
Secretary General of the Indo-Russian Cultural and Friendship Society P. Thangappan said the date of presenting the award to Mr. Jayakanthan would be announced soon. It was for the first time a well-known person from South India would be receiving the award.
