PM Modi Honoured in Cyprus with Cultural Respect and Grand Civilian Award
During a landmark visit to Cyprus on June 16, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was received with a unique and heartwarming gesture of respect by Michaela Kythreoti Mhlapa, a member of the Council of Nicosia. As PM Modi arrived at the historic centre of the Cypriot capital, Mhlapa touched his feet, a traditional Indian gesture symbolising deep reverence—a rare sight in international diplomacy.
PM Modi graciously acknowledged the gesture by placing his hand on her head and expressing appreciation with folded hands. Smiling warmly, he commended her for her familiarity with Indian customs, symbolising the growing cultural resonance of India on the global stage.
PM Modi Receives Cyprus’ Highest Civilian Honour
In another significant highlight of the visit, Prime Minister Modi was awarded the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, the highest civilian honour in Cyprus. The award was presented by President Nikos Christodoulides at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia. Named after Makarios III, the first president of Cyprus, the prestigious honour is reserved for heads of state and distinguished individuals in recognition of their exceptional service to the nation.
While receiving the honour, PM Modi stated:
“This honour is not just mine; it is the honour of 140 crore Indians—their abilities, aspirations, and values. It stands as a testament to our cultural brotherhood and the ideology of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (The world is one family).”
He further added:
“This recognition represents our unwavering commitment to peace, security, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the prosperity of our people. I accept this with humility and as a responsibility to deepen ties between India and Cyprus.”
Historic Diplomatic Visit
PM Modi’s trip marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Cyprus in over two decades, underscoring the strategic intent to deepen bilateral ties. Upon arrival at Larnaca International Airport, he was warmly received by President Christodoulides, with Cypriot officials emphasising the visit as a chance to further India-Cyprus cooperation.
Cyprus’s official government handle posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“PM Modi’s visit is an opportunity to deepen bilateral relations between Cyprus and India.”
Diaspora and Business Engagements
PM Modi was also warmly welcomed by the Indian diaspora in the coastal city of Limassol, reflecting India’s strong community presence and people-to-people ties in the region.
Furthering economic ties, PM Modi and President Christodoulides participated in a high-profile business roundtable, engaging with leading CEOs and industry leaders from both countries. The meeting focused on enhancing trade, technology collaboration, and investment opportunities between India and Cyprus, especially in renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, and fintech sectors.
A Symbol of Soft Power and Shared Values
This visit not only highlights India’s growing global diplomatic outreach but also underscores its cultural soft power, where gestures like foot-touching and mutual respect transcend borders. PM Modi’s honour and the heartfelt welcome he received reaffirm the strength of India’s cultural diplomacy, rooted in humility, mutual respect, and a shared vision of global peace and prosperity.
As the PM continues his international engagements, his Cyprus visit stands out as a moment of cultural connection, strategic dialogue, and mutual respect, reinforcing the bond between the two democratic nations.
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