Recognizing merits of Mr Norman Foster in drafting and subsequent adopting by UNECE members of the San Marino Declaration setting the innovative Principles for Sustainable and Inclusive Urban Design and Architecture”, the Republic has awarded to him Knight Grand Officer of the Equestrian Order of St Agatha.
The Order of St Agatha is an Order of merit awarded to foreign nationals who have been positively contributed charitable and other services either for outstanding civil or military services to the Republic or for humanitarian, artistic, political or sporting accomplishments. Mr Foster is Founder and Executive Chairman of Foster + Partners and President of the Norman Foster Foundation and the first architect to deserve such a recognition.
The ceremony was held in the presence of their Excellencies Captain Regent, HE Ms Maria Luisa Berti II and HE Mr Manuel Ciavatta I, as well as the Minister of Territory and Environment, HE Mr Stefano Canti.
In accepting the award, Mr Foster said ‘It is truly a great honour to receive the Equestrian Order of St Agatha and to follow in the footsteps of so many distinguished recipients. It is a privilege to receive this personally, but I am mindful that as the first architect to be awarded the Order, it is recognition of the importance that the buildings and infrastructure of cities plays in all our lives. This has a particular resonance at this time because, here in San Marino, I also launched the San Marino Declaration, and its Principles for Sustainable and Inclusive Urban Design and Architecture. It is my belief that this declaration will significantly contribute to a brighter, more sustainable future for all’.
