US President Joe Biden has awarded the prestigious “Presidential Medal of Freedom“ to a number of famous people, reported Agence France-Presse, quoted by BTA.
At a ceremony at the White House, the American president honored the highest civilian honor with the singer and activist Bono, basketball legend Magic Johnson, fashion queen Anna Wintour, actors Denzel Washington and Michael J. Fox and fashion designer Ralph Lauren.
He also honored committed individuals such as chef Josie Andries, founder of the non-governmental organization "World Central Kitchen", and Jane Goodall, a leading voice in the field of environmental protection.
"Truly extraordinary people who have given their valuable time to shaping the culture and cause of America", Biden said.
The 82-year-old Democrat also honored several other political figures. Financier and philanthropist George Soros, "a menace to some Republicans", was also awarded the prestigious medal. His son accepted it on his behalf at the ceremony. Democrat Hillary Clinton, who was a candidate for president in the 2016 election, was also honored for "making a mark on the world".
Lionel Messi, the Argentine soccer player and striker, was also awarded the prestigious award, but did not attend the ceremony.
Joe Biden chose to posthumously honor politician George Romney, father of Republican Senator Mitt Romney, as well as Robert Francis Kennedy, better known as "Bobby" Kennedy.