PM Modi Conferred with Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, Cyprus’s Highest Civilian Honour

New Delhi/Nicosia— In a landmark moment for India–Cyprus relations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, the Republic of Cyprus’s highest civilian honour, in a ceremony held on June 16. The accolade recognises Modi’s leadership and his contribution to strengthening diplomatic, cultural, and economic ties between the two nation.

Addressing the ceremony, President Nikos Christodoulides highlighted the significance of the award in light of shared democratic values and regional cooperation. Modi, in his acceptance remarks, dedicated the honour to “the 1.4 billion citizens of India,” acknowledging that it symbolises the collective efforts and achievements of the Indian people.

This honour coincides with Modi’s visit to Cyprus the first by an Indian prime minister in 23 years and is considered a strategic gesture amid rising regional unrest. The President’s award was viewed as a diplomatic signal supporting Cyprus’s sovereignty and aligning with India’s broader goals of engagement with Mediterranean partners.

The decoration adds to a growing list of international honours conferred on Modi, following earlier awards from countries such as Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Greece, and France, underscoring his expanding global stature.

By Rajeev Sharma

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