PM Narendra Modi / PM Modi receives Cyprus' highest honor, 'Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios-III'

PM Narendra Modi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently on an official visit to three countries, with the first stop being the European nation of Cyprus, where he has added a historic chapter to bilateral relations. On the second day of his visit, he was conferred with Cyprus's highest civilian honor – the "Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III." He has become the 23rd global leader to receive this distinction.

A Tribute to the People of India

At a grand ceremony held in the capital Nicosia, Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides presented the award to Prime Minister Modi. While accepting the honor, PM Modi said,

“This honor is not mine alone—it belongs to the 1.4 billion people of India. It is a recognition of our cultural values, brotherhood, and the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family).”

He further stated that the award is dedicated to the strong, friendly, and deep relationship between India and Cyprus, built on shared values, mutual understanding, and trust.

Focus on Trade, Investment, and Strategic Partnership

During his visit, PM Modi participated in a business roundtable with President Christodoulides, attended by business leaders from both countries. He described Cyprus as a "gateway to Europe" and emphasized that many Indian companies see it as strategically significant.

He also noted wide-ranging possibilities for cooperation between India and Cyprus in areas such as digital payments, tourism, defense, startups, and logistics. An important MoU was signed between NPCI International and Eurobank Cyprus, enabling cross-border digital payments for citizens of both countries.

MoU Between NSE and Cyprus Stock Exchange

Another major agreement was signed between the NSE International Exchange at GIFT City in Gujarat and the Cyprus Stock Exchange, marking the first financial cooperation of its kind between India and Europe. This is expected to open new opportunities for global investors.

India on Track to Becoming the 3rd Largest Economy

At another event in Limassol, PM Modi stated:

“India is now the fifth-largest economy in the world and will soon become the third-largest.”
He highlighted that policy stability, a digital revolution, corporate tax reforms, and business-friendly reforms have given India a new economic dimension.

Strengthening India–Cyprus Strategic Ties

The strategic importance of this visit is also noteworthy. Amid the long-standing tensions between Cyprus and Turkey, India's growing engagement is seen as diplomatically significant. Furthermore, India, Greece, and Cyprus jointly announced the formation of a Trilateral Business and Investment Council (IGC) to enhance cooperation in areas such as green energy, shipping, aviation, and digital services.

PM Modi Honored with 23 International Awards

So far, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred with 23 international honors, underscoring his global acceptance, effective leadership, and India’s rising international stature.