In a landmark moment for India-Cyprus relations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, the highest civilian honor of Cyprus, during his visit to the island nation on June 16, 2025. The award was presented by Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides, acknowledging Modi’s contribution to strengthening diplomatic ties. Named after Archbishop Makarios III, the first President of Cyprus, the Order symbolizes excellence in international collaboration. 

“Humbled to receive this honor. I dedicate it to the 1.4 billion Indians and the friendship between our nations,” Modi stated in an emotional tribute post-award. The felicitation marks the beginning of his three-nation diplomatic tour that also includes stops in Canada for the G7 Summit and then in Croatia, aiming to reinforce India’s global engagement.

India & Cyprus: A Friendship Forged in Trust and Shared Vision!

Though geographically distant, India and Cyprus have enjoyed a warm and steady relationship since 1962, built on shared democratic values, non-alignment principles, and mutual respect. Cyprus has consistently supported India's permanent seat at the UN Security Council, while India has reciprocated by backing Cyprus in matters related to its territorial integrity. 

Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Cyprus is a reaffirmation of this enduring bond. Both nations envision collaborations in renewable energy, technology exchange, maritime security, and education. In his speech, Modi emphasized, “Together, we will not only strengthen the progress of our two nations but also contribute towards building a peaceful and secure world.” 

Modi's Global Honors: A Statesman Recognized Across Continents!

With the Grand Cross of Cyprus added to his name, Narendra Modi has now been conferred with the highest civilian awards from over a dozen countries, including Russia’s Order of St. Andrew, Saudi Arabia’s King Abdulaziz Sash, the UAE’s Zayed Medal, the Legion of Honour from France, and the Order of the Nile from Egypt, to name a few. 

These honors underscore India's rising diplomatic stature under Modi’s leadership, as well as his growing personal influence in shaping global conversations around peace, trade, and development. Such recognitions reflect global acknowledgement of India’s growing soft power, economic potential, and moral standing in a fractured world. 

What This Means for India: Beyond Medals, Towards Momentum!

Modi’s acceptance of the Grand Cross represents far more than a diplomatic tradition; it signals India’s growing influence in global geopolitics and the evolving role of strategic, non-Western partnerships. It is a declaration to the world that India is an active contributor to peace, stability, and multilateralism. 

As Modi continues his journey to Canada for the G7 summit, the Cyprus honor adds momentum to India’s campaign for deeper global integration, climate responsibility, and economic cooperation. It also sets the tone for stronger ties with smaller yet strategic European nations who seek partnerships beyond traditional allies. 

Together, these global leaders can work and make the world a better place to be in.