PM Modi conferred Cyprus' highest honour – Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III

Nicosia [Cyprus], June 16: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, the highest civilian honour in Cyprus, by President Nikos Christodoulides during a ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia on Monday.

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Named after Makarios III, the first President of the Republic of Cyprus, the Order is the country's most prestigious award, presented to heads of state and other distinguished individuals in recognition of exceptional service to the nation.

Expressing his gratitude, Prime Minister Modi said the honour was a tribute not only to him but to the 1.4 billion citizens of India.

"I express my heartfelt gratitude to you, Mr. President, to the Government and the people of Cyprus for conferring upon me the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III. This honour is not mine alone—it belongs to 140 crore Indians. It represents their aspirations, achievements, and the spirit of our cultural values, especially the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world is one family," he said.

Prime Minister Modi dedicated the award to the enduring friendship between India and Cyprus and highlighted the two nations' shared values of peace, cooperation, and mutual respect.

"This honour stands as a symbol of our unwavering commitment to peace, security, sovereignty, and the prosperity of our peoples. I accept it as a responsibility to further strengthen the close ties between our countries."

He also voiced optimism about the future of India–Cyprus relations:

"I am confident that in the coming years, our partnership will reach new heights. Together, we will not only accelerate the progress of our nations but also contribute to building a more peaceful and secure world."