Vatican city: His Excellency Mr. R©gis K©vin Bakyono, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Burkina Faso to the Holy See, received the distinction of Knight Grand Cross of the Order of Pius IX at the Apostolic Palace. This event took place on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, marking one of the highest pontifical honorary distinctions granted to Heads of diplomatic missions.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the ceremony was presided over by His Excellency Monsignor Paolo Rudelli, Substitute for General Affairs of the Secretariat of State. The distinction serves as a mark of esteem and friendship towards Burkina Faso, highlighting the excellent relations between Burkina Faso and the Holy See.