The President of the Republic of Italy, Sergio Mattarella, has honored the director of the National Institution “Ohrid Summer,” Natasha Popović, with the Order of “Knight of the Star of Italy.” The award was presented by the Italian Ambassador to North Macedonia, Andrea Silvestri, who emphasized that this high recognition is for her exceptional contribution to promoting Italian culture at the “Ohrid Summer” festival.
“Since 2019, she has been the successful director of one of the most prestigious artistic festivals in the country, the international ‘Ohrid Summer’ festival, and an honorary delegate of the European Festivals Association (EFA). Throughout these years, I am sure that Natasha has earned the trust of the authorities and the respect of the citizens, colleagues, and friends by putting her professional skills at the service of her country and the broader international community. She carefully selects various artistic proposals coming from abroad. I confirm that she has earned Italy’s respect as I had the pleasure of closely collaborating with her over the years. She organized several outstanding Italian evenings, bringing the ‘crème de la crème’ of Italian music, musicians, conductors, and opera singers before the local audience,” said Ambassador Silvestri.
He stressed that he is particularly pleased that the President of Italy, Sergio Mattarella, accepted his proposal to bestow this recognition, which is granted to individuals significant for advancing relations between the two countries.
Director Popović, expressing her gratitude for this recognition, stated that it is a great honor to receive such a significant order as recognition for the successes of “Ohrid Summer,” but also a confirmation of the dedication and commitment of the entire team that prepares and realizes the festival.
“I share this order with my team, without whom the successes for which we are recognized both at home and abroad could not be achieved. It is truly a great joy when your successes are acknowledged, and in the future, we continue to write many more successful festival editions,” said Popović.
The Order of “Knight of the Star of Italy” was introduced in 1947 as the “Order of the Star of Italian Solidarity.”
