Russia’s President Vladimir Putin presented the Chief Rabbi of Russia, Berel Lazar, with a special medal for his “contribution to the homeland.”
The accolade is one of the most outstanding citations in Russia, awarded to persons who have made important contributions to the growth and prosperity of Russia.
In his remarks Rabbi Lazar pointed out that just a few years ago one could not even fantasize a Rabbi receiving a government medal’ and today the dramatic change is obvious.
Rabbi Lazar thanked the government and the president for the honor, support and and amity to the Jews in Russia today.