Cyprus Recognises Modi’s Global Leadership With Grand Cross Of Makarios III

During his official visit to Cyprus on June 16, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was bestowed with the country's highest civilian award, the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III. The honor was presented by Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides at a formal ceremony held at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia.

Named after Archbishop Makarios III, the first President of the Republic of Cyprus, the Order was established in 1991 to recognize exceptional service to the nation. The Grand Cross is the highest grade commonly conferred on foreign dignitaries, although technically, the Grand Collar ranks higher and is rarely awarded, typically reserved for heads of state.

Accepting the award, PM Modi expressed his gratitude and said the honor was a tribute to the enduring friendship between India and Cyprus. "Humbled to receive the 'Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III' of Cyprus. I dedicate it to the friendship between our nations," he wrote on X.

This marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Cyprus in over 20 years.

Significance of the Grand Cross

The Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III is considered Cyprus's most prestigious civilian distinction awarded to heads of government and exceptional individuals. It reflects appreciation for global leadership, diplomacy, and contributions to international cooperation.

Notable recipients of various grades of the Order in the past include President Pranab Mukherjee, King Abdullah II of Jordan, President Isaac Herzog of Israel, and King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands. The Grand Cross has also been awarded to individuals such as Professor Kypros Nicolaides for contributions to science and society.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

Following the award ceremony, PM Modi and President Christodoulides introduced their delegations and engaged in bilateral discussions. The two leaders addressed ways to boost strategic and commercial cooperation between India and Cyprus, focusing on sectors like energy, innovation, and technology.

Earlier, PM Modi received a ceremonial welcome at the Presidential Palace and was warmly received at Larnaca International Airport by President Christodoulides. In Limassol, he was greeted by members of the Indian diaspora.

As part of the day's agenda, both leaders met with top business leaders from their countries. "Boosting business linkages. President Nikos Christodoulides and I interacted with leading CEOs to add vigour to commercial linkages between India and Cyprus. I also talked about India's reform trajectory in the last decade," PM Modi posted on X.

The Cyprus Presidency echoed this sentiment, describing the visit as the beginning of a new era in bilateral ties. "Together, Cyprus and India send a strong message of cooperation and prosperity," it said in a post on X.

Broader Diplomatic Tour

PM Modi's arrival in Cyprus is part of a larger three-nation tour covering Cyprus, Canada, and Croatia. Prior to departure, he underscored the importance of India's ties with Cyprus, calling it a "close friend and an important partner in the Mediterranean and the EU."

"This visit provides an opportunity to build upon our historical bonds and expand cooperation in trade, investment, security, technology, and enhance people to people exchanges," PM Modi said in a statement.

With inputs from ANI