Cyprus Civilian Honour conferred on PM Modi marks a diplomatic high point. Learn about the Order of Makarios III and its impact on India–Cyprus ties for UPSC and other exams.
Prime Minister Modi Honoured with the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently received Cyprus’s highest civilian honour, the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, marking a milestone in India‑Cyprus relations. The award was presented by Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides on June 16, 2025, during Modi’s first official visit to the island nation. The accolade recognises his global leadership and commitment to enhancing bilateral ties
Diplomatic Context of the Visit
Modi’s arrival in Cyprus was historic: he is the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the country in over two decades, reinforcing diplomatic goodwill between the two nations . Welcomed warmly at Larnaca Airport and the Presidential Palace in Nicosia, he engaged in high-level discussions focusing on energy, technology, innovation, and trade with President Christodoulides and Cypriot business leaders
Global and Regional Significance
Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, Modi highlighted India’s commitment to peace, stating, “This is not an era of war.” His visit was part of a larger international tour—following Operation Sindoor, he will attend the G7 summit in Canada and then proceed to Croatia—reflecting India’s growing global role
Modi’s Acceptance Speech
Modi was visibly moved during the award ceremony, sharing heartfelt words: “Humbled to receive the Grand Cross… I dedicate it to the friendship between our nations,” emphasizing that the honour represents over 1.4 billion Indians
Path Forward in India‑Cyprus Relations
The honour marks a strategic pivot in bilateral relations. Discussions during the visit included deeper cooperation in trade, tech, cultural exchanges, and potential collaboration between the Cyprus Stock Exchange and India’s NSE in GIFT City Modi’s addressing of the Indian diaspora in Limassol further reinforced cultural ties
Why This News Is Important
Strengthening International Diplomacy
This award showcases India’s expanding diplomatic presence—Modi is now the most decorated Indian leader globally, reflecting recognition of India’s growing geopolitical influence .
Enhancing Trade and Technological Cooperation
The visit heralds upcoming trade and tech initiatives between India and Cyprus, including business councils and financial market collaboration, beneficial for aspirants preparing for banking, civil services, and international relations exams.
Global Peace Messaging
Modi’s emphasis on dialogue and peace amid global unrest aligns with India’s foreign policy approach, an important point for defence and civil service exam curricula.
Diplomatic History in Exam Questions
India‑Cyprus relations have roots in past diplomatic support (e.g., NSG backing and knighthood ties), all of which provide important background for current affairs segments in exams.
Domestic and Diaspora Connect
His engagement with the Indian community abroad reflects India’s soft power and diaspora diplomacy, relevant for cultural understanding in civil service exams.
Historical Context
Order of Makarios III
Established in 1991, this Cypriot order of merit is named after Archbishop Makarios III, the nation’s first president It ranks above all civilian honours in Cyprus and is awarded in six grades, with the Grand Cross being the second-highest
India–Cyprus Relations
India and Cyprus have maintained peaceful and supportive relations for decades. Key milestones include:
- Visit by PM Vajpayee in October 2002, where Cyprus backed India’s bid for a permanent UN Security Council seat
- Reciprocal high-level visits: President Pratibha Patil (2009), President Papadopoulos (2006)
- Economic ties reinforced with support in global groupings (NSG, IAEA), and active intercultural exchange throughout the 2000s
Recent years have witnessed increased economic cooperation, and Modi’s award highlights the deepening of such strategic partnership
Key Takeaways from PM Modi’s Cyprus Honour
| S. No | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1 | PM Modi received the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, Cyprus’s highest civilian award, on June 16, 2025. |
| 2 | He became the first Indian Prime Minister in decades to make an official visit to Cyprus, with significant diplomatic engagements. |
| 3 | Modi dedicated the award to 1.4 billion Indians, reinforcing national pride and diplomatic rapport. |
| 4 | The visit led to announced plans for collaboration in trade, technology, and capital markets like India‑Cyprus‑Greece Business Council. |
| 5 | Modi’s remark “This is not an era of war” underscored India’s stance on diplomacy and global peace amid regional tensions. |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the Order of Makarios III?
The Order of Makarios III is the highest civilian honour awarded by the Republic of Cyprus. It is named after Archbishop Makarios III, the first President of Cyprus.
Q2. Why was Prime Minister Narendra Modi honoured by Cyprus?
Prime Minister Modi was honoured for his exceptional contribution to strengthening India–Cyprus relations, his global statesmanship, and commitment to peace and cooperation.
Q3. What is the significance of Modi’s visit to Cyprus?
This was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Cyprus in over two decades. It marked a diplomatic milestone and opened new avenues for collaboration in trade, innovation, finance, and cultural exchange.
Q4. How does this award impact India’s global image?
Receiving Cyprus’s highest honour enhances India’s stature on the global stage and showcases Modi’s growing international recognition as a world leader.
Q5. What bilateral initiatives were discussed during the visit?
Talks included enhancing cooperation in energy, fintech, education, and the creation of platforms like the India–Cyprus–Greece Business Council to promote regional trade and investment.
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