A senior executive at Africa’s largest independent defence and aerospace business, Paramount Group, received the highest state order that can be bestowed by the president of Chile on foreign citizens, in recognition of his diplomatic service as South African ambassador.

Victor Zazeraj was decorated with the Great Cross of the Order of Bernardo O’Higgins during a ceremony held at the Chilean ambassador’s residence in Pretoria.

Chilean ambassador, Mr Francisco Marambio, said: "Dear Victor, the Order Bernardo O’Higgins represents one of Chile’s most valued distinctions. It was created to pay tribute to foreign friends of Chile, who have distinguished themselves in the promotion of a better understanding among foreign countries and Chile, or who are eminent in science, in altruism and in international cooperation. You fulfil all the requisites, set by the Council of the Order, to earn this tribute to you."

A career diplomat with high-level postings across the globe, Victor Zazeraj played an important role in shaping and strengthening the relations between South Africa and Chile.

His last post was as South African ambassador to Chile between 2004 and 2008. During that period of time he was involved in strengthening and deepening ties of friendship and cooperation between the two countries. He played an active role in developing commercial, political, and cultural ties with Chile. He also had the privilege of organising the state visit, to the country, by former president Thabo Mbeki.

Victor Zazeraj said: "A visit by the president of the country you represent is probably the biggest challenge you can face as head of mission during a posting. It was a very successful visit with President Mbeki delivering a historic speech to the two houses of the Chilean Parliament and some of the practical outcomes were the signing of several collaboration agreements between the two countries; the conclusion of the text of an agreement to avoid double taxation between South Africa and Chile, and the commencement of the study of an agreement in the field of mining and energy."

During Victor’s posting closer military ties were established, including visits by South African naval vessels to Chile, closer cooperation in technology, astronomy, ocean sciences and increased trade and investment with numerous South African businesses investing in the country.