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During his official visit to Cyprus, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, the highest civilian honour of Cyprus. This visit marked the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Mediterranean island nation.

About the Order of Makarios III

• Institution: Established in 1991.
• Named After: Archbishop Makarios III, the first President of the Republic of Cyprus.
• Nature: Cyprus’s highest merit-based honour, awarded to heads of state and individuals of significant global stature.
• Awarded By: The President of Cyprus.
• Grades:
  • Grand Collar (highest)
  • Grand Cross
  • Grand Commander
  • Commander
  • Officer
  • Knight

PM Modi received the Grand Cross, making him one of the few global leaders to be honoured at this level. The Prime Minister dedicated the award to the friendship between India and Cyprus, highlighting shared values and diplomatic ties.

Diplomatic and Economic Significance

• A roundtable interaction with top CEOs from both nations was held, focusing on deepening commercial and strategic engagement.
• Key sectors discussed:
  • Innovation
  • Energy
  • Technology
  • Trade and Investment
• PM Modi highlighted India's reform trajectory over the last decade, reinforcing India’s position as a growing economic partner.

Cyprus acknowledged this partnership, stating it was entering a "new era of strategic cooperation" with India, rooted in trust, shared values, and innovation.

Geographical Snapshot: Cyprus

• Region: Eastern Mediterranean
• Status: Eurasian island nation
• Capital: Nicosia
• Major Cities: Limassol, Larnaca, Famagusta, Paphos
• Highest Point: Mount Olympus (1,952 m)
• Size: Third-largest Mediterranean island after Sicily and Sardinia