On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was bestowed with the “Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III,” the highest civilian accolade awarded by the Republic of Cyprus. The honour was presented by Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides during PM Modi’s official visit to the nation.
During acceptance of the award, the Prime Minister expressed his deepest gratitude to the Cypriot President, the government, and the people of Cyprus.
He dedicated the award to India's 1.4 billion citizens, describing it as a celebration of the long-standing friendship between India and Cyprus based on common democratic values, mutual trust, and extensive cooperation.
This distinction is not for me, but for 1.4 billion Indians," the Prime Minister added. "It bears witness to our civilisational philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – one world, one family – that continues to inform India's vision for global peace, progress and cooperation.
He also added that Grand Cross symbolizes increasing warmth between India and Cyprus and reinforces the shared determination to safeguard peace, uphold sovereignty and territorial integrity, and seek collective prosperity.
Founded by then-President Spyros Kyprianou in 1981, the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III is one of Cyprus's highest honors. Given under Article 47b of the Constitution of Cyprus, it is reserved for very distinguished people who have contributed meaningfully to the development of bilateral relations and advocated for goodwill on the international scene.
Prime Minister Modi’s trip to Cyprus marks an important chapter as the two nations look to enhance collaboration in several domains, including economic development, cultural exchange, and innovation.
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