Romanian President, Klaus Iohannis has signed a decree honouring Highland MP, Drew Hendry with one of Romania’s highest national medals – in recognition of his work as Honorary Consul to Romania (Highlands and Islands).
Mr Hendry was presented with the National Order for Faithful Service of the Rank of Knight by Dan Mihalache, Ambassador of Romania to the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, at a ceremony held at the Romanian Embassy in London, on the occasion of Romania’s National Day.
The Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch & Strathspey MP has held the role of Honorary Consul to Romania since 2012 – preceding his election to the UK Parliament in 2015. As Honorary Consul, Mr Hendry is responsible for promoting community and business links between Scotland and Romania. He also has a key role in supporting Romanian nationals living and working across the Highlands and Islands.
On receiving the medal, Mr Hendry said:
“I am grateful to the President, the Ambassador and to the people of Romania for this symbol of friendship and cooperation between their country and Scotland. It is truly an honour to be recognised in this way and it was very unexpected – so much so that the President of Romania had already signed the decree before I even knew I was receiving it.
“It is particularly pleasing to accept this honour in recognition of my work with the Romanian community across the Highlands and Islands. Work that is supported by many other people working in our communities – helping to build bridges, challenge prejudices, and seize the opportunities for better links between our nations.
“Sewn into our history are the labours of those who come with their families, to contribute to our society and to make our home, their home. It has long been a place that welcomes those who want seek to enrich our lives, our economy, and our communities – I certainly intend to keep working with others to ensure it remains this way.”
Mr Hendry carries out his role as Honorary Consul to Romania (Highlands and Islands) and as an Ambassador for Inverness Women’s Aid alongside his work as the Member of Parliament for Inverness, Nairn, and Badenoch & Strathspey. Mr Hendry receives no financial remunerations for either of these roles.