Prime Minister Narendra Modi was honored with “The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago,” the country’s highest civilian award, on Friday. The award was presented by President Christine Kangaloo. This recognition marked a historic moment, as PM Modi became the first foreign leader to receive this distinguished award, underscoring the strong diplomatic relationship between India and Trinidad and Tobago.
PM Modi acknowledged the honor with appreciation, calling it a matter of “collective pride.” He emphasized the enduring friendship and shared cultural heritage between the two nations.
“This award reflects the eternal and deep friendship between our countries. I accept this honour as a collective pride on behalf of 140 crore people of India. To confer this award upon the first foreign leader reflects our deep relationship, which is based on common history and culture,” stated PM Modi after receiving the award.
Highlighting the historical and cultural ties, PM Modi noted President Kangaloo’s ancestral connection to Tamil Nadu. He drew a parallel to the teachings of Saint Thiruvalluvar, who outlined the essential qualities for a strong nation. He further highlighted the strong cultural connections between the two countries, mentioning cricket and the spice of pepper.
President Kangaloo expressed her pleasure in presenting the award, recognizing PM Modi’s significant contributions and the generosity shown to Trinidad and Tobago, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when India provided 40,000 vaccine doses, further solidifying the bond between the two nations.