President Vladimir Putin presented 55 state awards to cosmonauts, cultural and scientific figures and regional leaders in the Kremlin’s St. Catherine Hall. The President said that these awards are being presented to people united by their lofty aim to bring about Russia’s renaissance and make it a strong and prosperous country. Mr Putin thanked the recipients of the awards for their constant creative energy and their active position as citizens. “It is a great honour for me to work together with you,” the President said • President of Russia