Italy Awards President Lee Highest Honor, Escorts Plane with Eurofighters

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung received Italy's highest civilian honor, the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, during his state visit to the European nation. The award, bestowed by Italian President Sergio Mattarella, is the highest decoration for foreign heads of state and signifies Italy's appreciation for Lee's role in enhancing bilateral ties between the two countries.

This marks the first time Lee has received a foreign honor since assuming the presidency. The Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, established in 1951, is awarded to Italians or foreign heads of state who have made significant contributions in fields such as science, art, economics, or public service. A presidential office official noted that the award also reflects expectations for Lee's future contributions in international relations, especially given Italy's emphasis on South Korea's growing importance on the global stage.

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This is not an honor for Lee Jae-myung, but an honor for the Republic of Korea and the Korean people.

Italy demonstrated exceptional courtesy during the visit, which is the first state visit by a South Korean president in 26 years. Upon President Lee's aircraft entering Italian airspace, two Italian Air Force Eurofighter jets provided an escort. Lee expressed his gratitude via social media, stating, "This is not an honor for Lee Jae-myung, but an honor for the Republic of Korea and the Korean people."

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This signifies the evaluation of President Lee's contributions to promoting friendly relations between Korea and Italy, and expresses the highest level of courtesy.