Queen Elizabeth has appointed former Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chrétien to the Order of Merit, placing him in the exclusive ranks of such figures as Albert Schweitzer, Mother Teresa and Nelson Mandela.The award was founded in 1902 by King Edward VII.
A news release from the press secretary of the Queen says the award is given to "individuals of exceptional distinction in the arts, learning, sciences and other
areas such as public service".The official website of the British Monarchy said, "There are very few foreign recipients, although those given the order have included Dr. Albert Schweitzer, Gen. Eisenhower, Mother Teresa of Calcutta and Nelson Mandela."
Former Canadian prime ministers William Lyon Mackenzie King and Lester B. Pearson also received the honour.
The actual presentation is not expected to be made for several months.
Chrétien led the Liberal party to victory in 1993 and remained prime minister for 10 years, winning a majority in each of three back-to-back elections.
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