George Watts Awarded Russian Order of Friendship

RT journalist George Watts has been awarded the Order of Friendship for his contribution to the development of journalism in Russia.

Born in Canada, George has spent over 50 years in journalism in Russia. He moved from Canada to the USSR with his parents and brother in 1952. Since then he spent many years as anchor, editor and translator for USSR state radio. George then became the "voice" of Russia Today, right from the channel launch in 2005. As a gifted simultaneous translator, George has relayed innumerable live TV broadcasts of some of the most important political and diplomatic events of the last 5 years.

"George's experience is priceless. He is a unique professional and we are all proud of working at his side every day. I wish him good health and a long life," RT's editor-in-Chief Margarita Simonyan said.

George received his award at a ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of Russian television in the Kremlin's Catherine hall. The Order of friendship is awarded to those who have made a contribution to the development of friendship between nations or ethnic groups, distinguished themselves in developing Russia's economic and scientific potential, or facilitated cultural dialogue between nations and countries.