European Parliament President Roberta Metsola announced that former Portuguese President Aníbal Cavaco Silva has been awarded the title of Honorary Member of the European Order of Merit. This new distinction recognises individuals who have contributed significantly to European values, cooperation, and progress. Cavaco Silva was honoured for his pivotal role in Portugal's accession to the European Economic Community during his time as Prime Minister, as well as his support for the Maastricht Treaty and the Lisbon Treaty. Other notable recipients in this inaugural edition include Volodymyr Zelensky, Angela Merkel, and Lech Walesa.