Image Credit: https://www.pmindia.gov.in/
PM Modi Awarded Cyprus’ Highest Civilian Honour, Dedicates It to India-Cyprus Friendship
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was honoured with the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, the highest civilian award of Cyprus, during his visit to Larnaca International Airport. The award was presented by President Nikos Christodoulides, recognising Modi’s statesmanship and his role in strengthening the historic ties between India and Cyprus.
Modi receives Grand Cross in Cyprus
Accepting the award, Prime Minister Modi 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.”
He further added, “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. This award is a symbol of our unwavering commitment to peace, security, sovereignty, regional integrity and our people.”
Symbol of India-Cyprus friendship
The Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III is named after Cyprus’ first President and awarded for outstanding service to the nation or humanity. By conferring it on Modi, Cyprus has signalled its admiration for India’s growing global influence and its commitment to multilateral diplomacy.
Modi’s message of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world is one family—resonates strongly with Cyprus, especially as it prepares to assume the European Union presidency in 2026. The two nations also share common values rooted in democracy, cultural heritage, and peaceful coexistence.
Diplomatic and strategic significance
The award comes amid expanding bilateral cooperation in trade, digital infrastructure, renewable energy, and maritime partnerships. Cyprus plays a strategic role in the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), and Modi’s visit is seen as a push to align economic and connectivity agendas.
Earlier in the visit, both countries agreed to deepen engagement across sectors and launched the India-Cyprus-Greece Business & Investment Council. The move is seen as part of India’s effort to broaden its outreach within the EU and Eastern Mediterranean region.
