Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent conferment with the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, Cyprus's highest civilian honor, marks his 23rd international recognition. The award was presented by Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides during PM Modi's official visit to the island nation on June 16, 2025. This visit is particularly noteworthy as it is the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Cyprus since 2002.

The Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III is named after Archbishop Makarios III, the first President of Cyprus, and is bestowed upon individuals who have made significant contributions to international relations, peace, and diplomacy. President Christodoulides acknowledged India's long-standing support for Cyprus and its efforts to resolve the Turkish occupation. He also highlighted Cyprus's strategic importance as a member of the European Union and its potential to serve as India's gateway to Europe, especially with Cyprus set to assume the Presidency of the Council of the EU in 2026.

Upon receiving the award, Prime Minister Modi dedicated it to the 1.4 billion people of India and expressed his gratitude to the government and people of Cyprus. He emphasized the deep-rooted ties between the two nations, built on shared values and mutual trust. Modi also noted that the honor recognizes India's ancient philosophy of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam," which translates to "The World is One Family," a guiding principle for global peace and progress.

This latest recognition adds to the extensive list of honors Prime Minister Modi has received from various nations. These awards acknowledge his contributions to strengthening international relations, promoting global peace, and his leadership in various fields. Other notable awards include:

• Order of the Druk Gyalpo (Bhutan): Bhutan's highest civilian award, conferred in December 2021, recognizing PM Modi's role in strengthening India-Bhutan relations.
• Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour (France): France's highest civilian award, recognizing PM Modi's efforts to deepen Indo-French relations.
• Order of Nile (Egypt): Egypt's highest civilian honor, awarded for promoting global peace and bilateral cooperation.
• Companion of the Order of Fiji (Fiji): The highest civilian honor of Fiji.
• Ebakl Award (Republic of Palau): Presented by the President of Palau.
• Order of Zayed Award (United Arab Emirates): The UAE's highest civilian honor.
• Grand Collar of the State of Palestine Award (Palestine): Honoring PM Modi's efforts to bolster India-Palestine relations.
• State Order of Ghazi Amir Amanullah Khan Award (Afghanistan): Afghanistan's top civilian honor.
• King Abdulaziz Sash (Saudi Arabia): Saudi Arabia's highest civilian honor awarded to non-Muslim dignitaries.

These accolades reflect the global acknowledgement of Prime Minister Modi's efforts in fostering international partnerships and India's growing influence on the world stage. The Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III further solidifies his position as a global statesman committed to regional peace, development, and spiritual diplomacy.