National Assembly authorized Mayor Carmen Meléndez to receive decoration from Russia

Published at: 30/09/2025 05:42 PM

The National Assembly (AN), this Tuesday, September 30, approved the authorization for the mayor of Caracas, Carmen Teresa Meléndez Rivas, to receive the “Order of Friendship” award granted by the Russian Federation, a decision that is based on article 187 of the Constitution of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and recognizes the official's role in strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations.

The session was attended by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Russia in Venezuela, Sergey Mélik-Bagdasárov.

Deputy Azucena Jaspe presented the proposal to the Plenary, who explained that this distinction is granted to Russian and foreign citizens for merits in promoting peace, international cooperation, understanding between peoples, and the development of joint projects in areas such as culture, science, education and economy.

During the debate, Jaspe emphasized that the “Order of Friendship” also values the promotion of integration and the defense of citizen rights.

In her speech, she said that “on behalf of Venezuelan women and the people of Caracas, she will celebrate this award with joy.”

He emphasized that the recognition reflects Meléndez's commitment to local diplomacy and international coordination.

The National Assembly stresses that this distinction represents a gesture of recognition of municipal management and efforts to consolidate cooperation between Caracas and Moscow.

The award of the “Order of Friendship” is part of the strategic relations between Venezuela and Russia, which have been strengthened in various fields in recent years.

“It is a source of pride for all Venezuelans that today an honorable and extraordinary woman receives this tribute, at a time when the bonds of friendship between Venezuela and Russia are becoming visible to the Peoples of the world,” concluded Deputy Azucena Jaspe.

The parliamentary approval formalizes institutional support for the award of the award by the Russian Government.