Pope Benedictus 16 conferred upon Lebanese Ambassador to the Vatican George Khoury a senior citation "1X Pie l'Ordre de Grand-Croix" in recognition of his concerted efforts in strengthening diplomatic relations between the Apostolic Chair and the Lebanese State and people, as cited in the Vatican decision. Ambassador Khoury thanked the Pope and Apostolic Chair officials for the citation, saying this gesture is not only honoring his person but also the significant relations existing between Lebanon and the Vatican.