Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Cyprus' highest civilian award, the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, on Monday during his overseas visit. He accepted the honour during his official visit to the Mediterranean country.
Modi Expresses Gratitude to Cyprus
Soon after receiving the award, PM Modi expressed deep appreciation. He thanked the President of Cyprus, the government, and the people for the recognition.
He said, “President, for the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, I express heartfelt gratitude to you, the Government of Cyprus and the people of Cyprus. This is an honour not just to Narendra Modi but to 140 crore Indians; this is an honour to their capabilities and aspirations. This is an honour to our culture, brotherhood and the ideology of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.”
Εκφράζω την ειλικρινή μου ευγνωμοσύνη στην Κυβέρνηση και στον λαό της Κύπρου που μου απένειμαν τον ‘Μεγαλόσταυρο του Τάγματος του Μακαρίου ΙΙΙ’.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 16, 2025
Αυτό δεν είναι δική μου τιμή. Είναι τιμή για 140 εκατομμύρια Ινδούς. Αφιερώνω αυτή την απονομή στην αιώνια φιλία μεταξύ Ινδίας και… pic.twitter.com/7cpMX36hOS
PM Dedicates Award to India-Cyprus Relations
Moreover, the Prime Minister dedicated the award to India-Cyprus ties and their shared commitment to peace and understanding.
He stated, “I dedicate this to the friendly relations between India and Cyprus, our shared values and mutual understanding. On behalf of all Indians, I accept this honour with great humility and thankfulness.”
In addition, PM Modi said the award reflects India’s larger values and role on the global stage. He added, “This award is a symbol of our unwavering commitment to peace, security, sovereignty, regional integrity and our people.”
Ceremonial Welcome at Presidential Palace
Earlier that day, Cypriot officials gave PM Modi a ceremonial welcome at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia. The warm reception marked the start of his two-day visit, which began on June 15, following an invitation from President Nikos Christodoulides.
Cyprus is First Stop in Modi’s International Tour
Notably, Cyprus is the first destination on PM Modi’s three-nation tour. He will next travel to Canada and Croatia. Furthermore, he is scheduled to attend the G7 Summit during this trip.
Finally, the Prime Minister is expected to wrap up his international tour by June 19.