President of the Czech Republic, Vaclav Klaus, received jazz bassist George Mraz at the Prague Castle on Wednesday, June 10th, 2009 and solemnly handed him the Golden Plaque of the President of the Republic. The musician received the award on the occasion of his 65th birthday.

“It gives me great pleasure to hand over to you the Medal of the President of the Republic, which is given to those who have achieved something fundamental for us-for the whole country, and became famous abroad, are known personalities and influenced their field. I am fully convinced that you are such a person,” said Vaclav Klaus to George Mraz, who happily received the award. “I am very moved and I will treasure it.” said the musician.

Vaclav Klaus also admitted that he was glad that Mraz came to Prague and he “did not have to go to him to New York.”

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