KATHMANDU: The highest French civil distinction “Knight of the Legion of Honour” was conferred on Nepali trekking entrepreneur Ang Norbu Sherpa in recognition of his outstanding contribution to saving lives of French tourists during the devastating earthquakes of April and May 2015.

On behalf of the President of the French Republic, Ambassador of France to Nepal Yves Carmona honoured Ang Norbu Sherpa, the Managing Director of Adventure 6000 Company Private Limited, with the highest French civilian distinction, Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur (Knight of the Legion of Honour) on Wednesday.

Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Carmona expressed his gratitude that Sherpa devoted his time, energy and his commitment to help the French nationals at own risk during the earthquake of April 25, 2015, in which nearly 9,000 lost their lives in Nepal.

Moreover, Sherpa was admired for his aid to bring food and tents to the villagers in Langtang Valley, who helped searching for the bodies of French trekkers.

Accepting the honour, Sherpa expressed his genuine humility.

He said, “I am very humbled that the Government of France has bestowed me this honour which I will cherish forever. France holds a special place in my heart and I have deep relations with France, both professionally and personally.”

About the Legion d’Honneur

The Legion d’Honneur, created in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte, la Légion d’Honneur (“the Legion of Honour”) is the highest civilian award given by the French Republic for outstanding service to France, regardless of the nationality of the recipients. The President of the French Republic is the Grand Master of the Order of the Legion of Honour.