The famous Odessa pianist Alexey Botvynov became a knight of the Order of the Star of Italy. The musician announced this on his Facebook page.
The relevant decree was signed by Italian President Sergio Mattarella.
The award to the pianist was presented by the Ambassador of Italy to Ukraine, Davide La Cecilia. He noted that Botvynov was awarded an order for the support of cultural cooperation between Italy and Ukraine, the Odessa Classics festival and a series of concerts at Milan's La Scala.
Reference: The Order of the Star of Italy is a state award of the Italian Republic. The order is awarded to Italian citizens living abroad and foreigners for special merits in the development of friendly relations and cooperation between Italy and other countries and for the development of relations with Italy.
The award is awarded by the President of Italy on the proposal of the Minister of Foreign Affairs after consultation with the Council of the Order.
