Accor?s Issenberg wins top French medal

Michael Issenberg, chairman and CEO AccorHotels Asia Pacific, has been awarded the Ordre National du M?rite from the French government, one of the highest civilian orders possible, for his ?tireless work in forging links between France and the world.?

This award goes to only a handful of non-French-citizens each year and is nominated by the president for those who ?best exemplify the Gallic spirit.?

For more than two decades, Issenberg has showcased French hospitality throughout Asia Pacific and has forged strong links between France and the region.

Over the years, he has played a part in bringing French tourism icons to the region including chefs, artists, sports people and business leaders and has supported numerous French trade missions and events.

?The French are renowned the world over for outstanding gastronomy, arts and fashion, and most importantly the French ?joi de vivre? and I am proud that AccorHotels plays a part in bringing these traditions to Asia Pacific and the world,? said Issenberg.