Vladimir Putin presents the Order of Friendship to Susan Lehrman

International philanthropist Susan Lehrman, founder of The Carmel Institute of Russian Culture and History, has received a Russian state award, the Order of Friendship, from President Vladimir Putin.

There are people in Russia and the United States who seek to enhance bilateral relations and this offers hope for the full-fledged restoration of these ties, the Russian president commented in his remarks during the ceremony.

"In our countries, in Russia and the U.S., there are people who appreciate the relationships with each other, respect and love the culture of the United States and the Russian culture," Putin said at a ceremony at the Kremlin on Nov. 4.

"No doubt, this contributes to a common understanding, and brings hope for the full-fledged restoration of our relations, for the sake of our peoples," he said.

Susan Lehrman: Connecting Russian and American cultures

The Russian president praised the education programs initiated in the U.S. by Lehrman. Putin stressed that such projects are vital during these times when Russian-U.S. relations "face serious challenges."

“In all my philanthropic endeavors, Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s principle that 'Beauty will save the world' has guided me. The Carmel Institute of Russian Culture and History that I founded is based on his principle,” Lehrman said.

“Only by appreciating the beauty of culture and by respecting each other’s cultural roots and history can we establish stronger and more authentic bonds,” she said. “Real change must come from the heart, and I sincerely believe that the greatest way to reach the hearts and minds of people is through the beauty of cultural sharing and cultural dialogue.”

Putin presented the awards to “foreign citizens who have made special contributions to strengthening peace, friendship, cooperation and mutual understanding among different peoples.” The ceremony took place in the Kremlin to mark National Unity Day.

Read more: New U.S.-Russia cultural institute targets better understanding of WWII>>>

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