Professor Muhammad Yunus was awarded the Golden Cross of the Civil Order of Social Solidarity by the Spanish Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs. In a ceremony held at the Zarzuela Palace on May 24, 2005. HE Mr. Anwar Ul Alam, Ambassador of Bangladesh to Spain, received the award on behalf of Professor Yunus from Her Majesty Queen Sofia of Spain. Ambassador Alam presented Professor Yunus the Cross at a special dinner hosted in his honor on July 6, during his visit to Spain. HRH Princess Irene of Greece, sister of HM Queen Sofia, graced the event with her presence.