Vlad Alexandrescu, the former minister of culture in the Government led by Dacian Ciolos, was awarded the French title of Chevalier of the Ordre des Palmes Académiques for an exceptional career path and for contributing to the development of French-Romanian relations.

Adrian Baboi-Stroe, a former state secretary in the Ministry of Justice, made the announcement on Facebook. Vlad Alexandrescu is currently a senator, representing the Save Romania Union (USR) party.

Napoleon I first created the Palmes Académiques as an honorary title to recognize members of the University of Paris in 1808. It was changed into its current form as an Order in the fall of 1955 by President René Coty, being split into three ranks, namely Chevalier (Knight), Officier (Officer), and Commandeur (Commander).

The Ordre des Palmes Académiques recognizes people’s achievements in the fields of education and learning.

Irina Marica, irina.marica@romania-insider.com

(photo source: Adrian Baboi-Stroe on Facebook)