Wipro chairman Azim Premji has been honoured with the highest French civilian distinction known as the Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur (Knight of the Legion of Honour).
He has been bestowed this honour for his contribution towards the information technology industry. Premji received the award from Alexandre Ziegler, Ambassador of France to India.
“I am extremely honored by the award bestowed on me. The vibrancy of the French democracy and its diversity is an inspiration to all across the world,” Premji said.
Talking about the honour, the Legion of Honour is the highest civilian award given by the French Republic for outstanding service to France which was instituted by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802. This award is given regardless of the nationality of the recipients.
“The award was bestowed on Azim Premji for his outstanding contribution to developing the information technology industry in India, his economic outreach in France, and his laudable contribution to society as a philanthropist through the Azim Premji Foundation,” said Alexandre Ziegler.
Wipro is one of the top five Indian software services exporters, has been associated with France for more than 15 years. Also, the Bengaluru-based company has a close relationship with several French organizations.