January 28, Moscow. (DPRK ISG Information Bureau – RSTV)   

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In recognition of his outstanding personal contribution to supporting the just struggle of the Palestinian people and his active peacemaking activities in the Middle East, Comrade Sergey Nikolaevich Baburin, President of the International Association of Peace Funds (IAPF) and Vice President of the DPRK International Solidarity Group (DPRK ISG), has been awarded the Order of the "Star of Jerusalem."

The solemn award ceremony took place in Moscow on January 27 at the Embassy of Palestine. The highest state award was presented on behalf of Mahmoud Abbas, President of the State of Palestine, by the respected Abdelhafiz Nofal, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the State of Palestine to the Russian Federation.

In his speech during the ceremony, the Ambassador conveyed words of deep gratitude from the Palestinian leadership for Comrade Baburin's longstanding and consistent stance in defending the legitimate rights of the Arab people of Palestine on the international stage, as well as his practical efforts in providing humanitarian support and promoting dialogue.

Accepting the order, Comrade Baburin expressed sincere gratitude to President Mahmoud Abbas and the entire Palestinian leadership for the high appraisal of his work. He emphasized that he perceives this award primarily as a recognition of the merits of all Russia, which historically and steadfastly stands on the side of truth and justice in the Palestinian question.

"I am merely a humble representative of this great country. Everything that has been achieved in supporting the heroic Palestinian people is the result of common efforts with my comrades," he stated.

Comrade Baburin noted that for him, as the long-time head of the Russian Center for the Preservation of the Spiritual and Cultural Heritage of the Holy City of Jerusalem, this award holds special, symbolic significance. He firmly reaffirmed the immutable principled position: East Jerusalem rightfully must become the capital of an independent State of Palestine.

Comrade Baburin also expressed understanding regarding the fact that the schedule of President Abbas's official visit did not allow him to attend the ceremony in person, stressing that the very attention from the Palestinian leadership is extremely precious to him. He voiced cautious optimism, noting that in the current international conditions, the issue of a just and comprehensive settlement of the Palestinian problem is closer than ever to its resolution.

Comrade Baburin's spouse was present at the significant event, whom he publicly thanked for her constant support and understanding throughout his life, stating that all his successes are largely her achievements.

Following the conclusion of the official part of the ceremony and interaction with journalists, an informal working conversation took place between Comrade Baburin and Ambassador Abdelhafiz Nofal. During a friendly discussion over a cup of coffee, the parties discussed current issues of the Middle East settlement, prospects for the activities of joint public institutions, as well as preparations for the International Day of Al-Quds, symbolizing the unwavering will of the Palestinian people.