The Central Bank of Peru said President Julio Velarde received the Order of Merit in the Grade of Grand Cross from the Municipality of Lima in recognition of his career in public service. The award was presented by Lima Mayor Renzo Reggiardo during official celebrations marking the 205th anniversary of the national declaration of independence by Lima's open council. In remarks at the ceremony, Velarde said Peru had recorded the lowest inflation in the region this century and that this stability had helped the country withstand political crises. He added that short-term economic indicators were positive, while identifying the El Niño phenomenon as the main risk. The event was also attended by President-elect Keiko Fujimori, who said Velarde's 20 years of leadership had helped strengthen the institution, support investment confidence and protect household savings.