Ban Ki-moon gets royal Dutch honour

The Hague, April 20: UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has received a high Dutch royal honour in The Hague.

Ban was made a Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Netherlands Lion on Tuesday. At a ceremony, Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs Bert Koenders handed Ban the honour on the behalf of the Dutch government, Xinhua reported.

"You have worked tirelessly for peace, security, justice and development in the world," said Koenders in his speech.

"You have been the voice of people affected by natural disasters, discrimination, conflict and inequality," added Koenders.

According to the government, Ban has worked hard to prevent and resolve conflicts, has taken the initiative for the renewal of peace missions and has fought for human rights.

The Order of the Netherlands Lion is a high order of chivalry of the Netherlands. It has existed since 1815 and has previously been given to eminent individuals from all walks of life.

In 2006, Kofi Annan, the former UN secretary-general, was made a Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Netherlands Lion as well.

IANS