President Lennart Meri conferred the Second Class Order of the National Coat of Arms to the composer Arvo Pärt. At the decoration ceremony the President noted that Estonia is fortunate to have such an ambassador in the World as the composer Arvo Pärt.
Arvo Pärt said that he would be glad to share the honour with the Estonian musicians who have interpreted his music in the world and have thus served as an alternative Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
President and Arvo Pärt discussed the importance of the Estonian music, especially for introducing Estonia to the parts of the world where it is yet little known. The composer asked the President for advice in choosing the countries where Estonian music is still unknown so he could provide further help in introducing Estonia to the world.

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