The award, which qualifies as a second civilian honor of Italy, is bestowed upon those, Italians abroad or foreign nationals, who have acquired special merit in the promotion of friendly relations and cooperation between Italy and other countries or brought prestige to Italy.

The OSI distinction was assigned in recognition of Dr. Bozzato's scholarly work and achievements in East Asia and Oceania, and of his humanitarian effort as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary (non resident) of the Sovereign Order of Malta to the Republic of Nauru.