ISLAMABAD, Nov 29: Former prime minister Benazir Bhutto on Tuesday received the World Tolerance Award for “her vision, personal strength, commitment to her ideals and passion for creating a better and peaceful world in the 21st century.”

Former Soviet president Mikhail Gorbachev gave her the award in the German city of Leipzig, says a message received here.

The World Award Committee is headed by Nobel laureate Gorbachev and composed of the distinguished International World Award Jury.

The citation said: “You became the first woman to lead a Muslim country in modern times when you were elected prime minister of Pakistan in 1988.

“Throughout the times of political struggle and years spent in exile you pledged to transform Pakistani society by focusing attention on the programmes for health, social welfare and education for the underprivileged.

“Your continued efforts to improve the condition of women in your country, even under the most difficult circumstances are an inspiration to millions of women around the world.”

Pope John Paul II, opera singer Luciano Pavarotti, broadcaster Larry King, former Polish president Lech Walesa, singer Yousuf Islam (Cat Stevens) and film producer Roman Polanski are a few personalities who have received the World Award and Women’s World Award for achieving excellence in their respective fields.