A historic diplomatic milestone, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred with the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, the highest civilian award of Cyprus, during his official visit to the island nation in June 2025. This rare and prestigious recognition highlights India’s growing global stature and the deepening ties between New Delhi and Nicosia.
What Is the Order of Makarios III?
The Order of Makarios III is Cyprus’ highest civilian honor, named after the nation’s first president and independence hero, Archbishop Makarios III. Established in 1991, this order is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the Republic of Cyprus or strengthened bilateral and international cooperation.
🏅 Key Facts About the Award:
- Name: Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III
- Named After: Archbishop Makarios III – First President of Cyprus
- Established: 1991
- Significance: Highest honor Cyprus bestows on foreign nationals
- Awarded For: Exceptional diplomatic service, promotion of peace, or international cooperation
Why Was PM Modi Chosen?
PM Modi’s leadership has significantly enhanced India’s diplomatic outreach, and Cyprus has recognized his personal and political efforts to strengthen the relationship between the two nations. President Nikos Christodoulides of Cyprus awarded this honor to PM Modi at an official ceremony in the Presidential Palace in Nicosia.
🔹 Reasons for the Honor:
- Strengthening India–Cyprus bilateral ties
- Promoting peace and democratic cooperation
- Expanding trade, cultural, and defense collaborations
- Supporting global South–North cooperation
- Representing the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians on the world stage
PM Modi dedicated this award to “1.4 billion Indians,” calling it a symbol of the growing respect India commands in the global community.
Modi’s Global Honors – A Quick Look
PM Modi has now received more than 15 international awards from various nations. The Grand Cross from Cyprus adds to a growing list of civilian honors recognizing his diplomatic leadership.
Major International Awards Received by PM Modi
| Year | Country | Award Name | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Cyprus | Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III | Highest civilian award of Cyprus |
| 2025 | Sri Lanka | Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana | Top honor for foreign dignitaries |
| 2025 | Mauritius | Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean | National Order of highest merit |
| 2023 | France | Grand Cross of Legion of Honour | France’s highest civilian award |
| 2023 | Egypt | Order of the Nile | Egypt’s top state honor |
| 2023 | Fiji | Companion of the Order of Fiji | Highest Fijian honor for a foreign leader |
| 2023 | PNG | Grand Companion of the Order of Logohu | Highest award of Papua New Guinea |
| 2024 | Russia | Order of St. Andrew | Oldest and most prestigious Russian honor |
| 2019 | UAE | Order of Zayed | UAE’s highest civil decoration |
Cyprus–India Relations: A Strategic Partnership
While Cyprus may be a small island nation, it holds significant strategic importance, particularly as a member of the European Union. PM Modi's visit to Cyprus underlines a growing diplomatic engagement that extends to areas like trade, technology, education, maritime security, and cyber defense.
Key Diplomatic Highlights:
- PM Modi is the first Indian leader in over two decades to visit Cyprus.
- Discussions included cooperation in multilateral forums, including support for India's efforts in the United Nations and European Union.
- Cyprus reaffirmed its support for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the EU, which could open economic opportunities for millions.
A Visit Laden with Symbolism
Modi’s visit also included a tour of the Green Line near Nicosia—a UN buffer zone that divides the island into the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish-controlled north. His symbolic walk near the line is being seen as a strong message of support for Cyprus’ sovereignty and a subtle stance against aggressive regional posturing by Turkey.
This visit has not just diplomatic significance but also a message of peace and unity, representing India as a nation committed to democratic values and peaceful coexistence.
Conclusion: A Diplomatic Win for India
The Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III is more than just a medal—it is a symbol of trust, partnership, and India’s rising status as a global leader in diplomacy. PM Modi’s receipt of this award underscores his continued efforts to place India firmly on the international stage through meaningful cooperation and strategic alliances.
As India continues to build bridges across continents, the honor from Cyprus becomes a proud moment not just for the Prime Minister but for the entire nation.
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