Putin Decorates Sergei Mikhalkov with Service to Fatherland Order, 2nd Class

Russian President Vladimir Putin has awarded famous poet Sergei Mikhalkov, who on Thursday celebrated his 90th anniversary, with the 2nd class Order For Service to Fatherland.

The President arrived at Mikhalkov's to congratulate him in person.

According to RIA Novosti, the Russian head of state signed the decree about awarding Mikhalkov on Thursday. The writer was given the award for his outstanding contribution to developing the country's culture.

Moreover, Putin gave Mikhalkov an album with the writer's youth photographs. "I think you have some of these, but not all. This is what we have found in our archives," the President said.

"This is a gorgeous present," Mikhalkov admitted, thanking Putin for the congratulations.

The writer gave the Russian leader a book of his works with an inscription. The book was published to commemorate Mikhalkov's 90th anniversary.