OREANDA-NEWS. November 16, 2011. In a unique honour, Belgium today conferred the “Commandeur of the Order of Leopold II”, one of the country’s highest civilian distinctions, to Mr. Naresh Goyal, Chairman, Jet Airways, for his meritorious service and efforts to foster business and cultural ties with Belgium. This distinction has been conferred on him by H.E The King of the Belgians.

In recognition of Jet Airways’ contribution to India’s business and cultural ties with Belgium, the Belgian Ambassador H.E. Mr. Pierre Vaesen handed over the Commandeurs cross of the Order of Leopold II in the presence of the visiting Minister – President of Flanders, Mr. Kris Peeters. Also present at the glittering ceremony to celebrate the Kings Day, in New Delhi and to witness the event were heads of missions and members of the diplomatic community from varied nations as well as Indian officials and captains of the Belgian and Indian industry.

Commenting on the conferment of the high civilian distinction to Mr. Goyal, the Belgian Ambassador H.E., Mr. Pierre Vaesen said, “I warmly congratulate you on being conferred this highest distinction, which is a recognition of your remarkable career in global aviation and of the lead taken by you in helping establish and nurture Indo - Belgian cultural and economic ties. Our King and the people of Belgium wish to pay their tribute by conferring this distinction on you.”

Named in honour of King Leopold II of Belgium the “Order of Leopold II” is one of the highest civilian distinctions in Belgium. It was, established on 24 August 1900 by Leopold II. The distinction is awarded for meritorious service by the Sovereign of Belgium. Importantly, the Order of Leopold II can only be awarded by a Royal Decree.

Commenting on the conferment of the Commandeur of the Order of Leopold II Mr. Naresh Goyal, Chairman, The Jet Airways Group said, I am deeply humbled to be considered worthy of the conferment of the Commandeur of the Order of Leopold II and offer my heartfelt thanks to His Majesty, the Government and citizens of Belgium for this singular honor. I accept it on behalf of each and every member of the Jet Airways family, whose consistent pursuit of excellence has singularly enabled the success of our Airline. And I pledge to continue our combined endeavor to add further value towards nurturing and enhancing Indo-Belgian economic and cultural ties in the years ahead.