Nicole Haziza, the honorary French Consul, has received France’s prestigious National Order of Merit for her service to the country.

Anne-Claire Legendre, the Consul General of France in New York, presented Ms Haziza with the honour in a ceremony at Government House.

Ms Legendre said: “It is a great privilege to honour our honorary consul Nicole Haziza with the National Order of Merit.

“France is very grateful for her dedication in service to the nation and its citizens in Bermuda.”

David Burt, the Premier, and John Rankin, the Governor, congratulated Ms Haziza for the honour.

Mr Rankin added Ms Haziza had made a valuable contribution to the community and represented France with “grace and distinction”.

The National Order of Merit is one of France’s most prestigious distinctions.

Awarded by the president of the French Republic, the order was founded in 1963 by president Charles de Gaulle to reward “distinguished merit” and to honour individuals for distinguished military or civil achievements.

The National Order of Merit is a universal order honouring individuals from all fields of activity and is bestowed upon French citizens and foreign nationals alike.