Published : 2024-09-17

On September 17, 2019, Chinese President Xi Jinping issued a presidential decree, awarding the first batch of 42 people with national medals and national honorary titles.

According to the decree, a total of 8 people were awarded the "Medal of the Republic", including Yu Min(于敏), Shen Jilan(申紀蘭), Sun Jiadong(孫家棟), Li Yannian(李延年), Zhang Fuqing(張富清), Yuan Longping(袁隆平), Huang Xuhua(黃旭華), and Tu Youyou(屠呦呦).

In addition, 6 international friends were awarded the "Friendship Medal of the People's Republic of China", and 28 people were awarded honorary titles.

The Medal of the Republic is one of the highest honors awarded to citizens in China. The medal is predominantly red and gold, featuring elements such as the national emblem, five-pointed star, Yellow River, Yangtze River, mountains, and peonies.

The neck chain includes elements such as Chinese knots, Ruyi (a ceremonial scepter), orchids. The Medal of the Republic is made through overall cold pressing, filigree inlay, enameling, and other crafts.

The Friendship Medal, predominantly in gold and blue, features elements like a peace dove, Earth, handshake, and lotus. The neck chain contains Chinese knots, evergreen, peonies, jade discs, and orchid grass.

The Friendship Medal is handcrafted using traditional techniques such as filigree inlay and cloisonné enameling.

As for the "National Titles of Honor", the medal is primarily red and gold, adorned with elements such as five stars, Tiananmen gate, peonies, flags, and rays of light.

The neck chain has elements including Chinese knots, and flowers. The medal is made using cold press forming, filigree inlay, and enameling.