France has conferred its highest civilian honour, the Commandeur de la Légion d'Honneur, on former Indian envoy to Paris, Jawed Ashraf. The award was presented by Ambassador Thierry Mathou during a ceremony at the French embassy.
Ashraf, who served as envoy to France from 2020-2024, was recognised for his contributions to strengthening bilateral relations. He joined the Indian Foreign Service in 1991 and was appointed chairman of the Indian Trade Promotion Organization after his retirement in 2024.
Ambassador Ashraf's tenure as envoy to France saw landmark achievements, including the purchase of 36 Rafale combat jets by the Indian Air Force and the joint development and manufacture of military hardware.
The Legion of Honour was instituted in 1802 and has several levels, including the Grand Cross, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer and Chevalier. Ashraf is the first Indian diplomat to receive the honour, following in the footsteps of seven great luminaries of modern India.
