The Order of Honorary Citizen of Russia awarding ceremony was held at the President Hotel in Moscow. This order is a public award for persistent and effective activity contributing to the strengthening of power, dignity and prosperity of the Russian Federation. Over the years of its existence, more than a thousand business managers, scientists, physicians, educators, cultural figures and sportsmen have been nominated for this award.

The Council of Experts of the All-Russia Committee for Public Awards and Degrees resolved to award the Order of Honorary Citizen of Russia to Vladimir Makhlai, President of Togliattiazot, for his contribution to the development of the Russian chemical industry. Under his tenure, Togliatti Azot Factory has become one of the leading undertakings in Russia and the world’s largest producer and exporter of ammonia. Vladimir Makhlai is the author of over 60 research papers and inventions which have been successfully implemented in chemical production.

During the ceremony, the Order of Honorary Citizen was also presented to: Vladimir Etush, People’s Artist of Russia, Victor Gnevko, Rector of the Saint Petersburg Economics and Management Academy, Valery Platonov, General Director of Chelyabinsk Tractor Plant, Victor Livanov, Chief Designer of Ilyushin Aviation Complex, Grigory Pototsky, the architect, Alexander Isayev, General Director of Sibirtelecom, Vladimir Popov, General Director of Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant, and numerous other distinguished people of Russia.