The Order of the State of Republic of Turkey (Turkish: Türkiye Cumhuriyeti Devlet Nişanı) is the highest state order awarded to foreign nationals by the President of the Republic of Turkey. The Order of the State is conferred by the President, upon the decision of the Council of Ministers, to the Heads of State, presidents and royal members in recognition of their contributions for enhancing the amicable relations between their respective countries and Turkey. The "Regulation on State Awards and Medals" numbered 19892 was prepared and entered in the Official Gazette on 7 August 1988. Source: Wikipedia (en)