Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Kuwait has conferred its highest national award, the Order of Mubarak the Great, upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his significant contributions to strengthening the relationship between India and Kuwait. The honour was bestowed by the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, during a ceremony at the Bayan Palace on Sunday.
The award presentation, which took place during Modi’s historic two-day visit to Kuwait — the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 43 years — underscores the deep bond shared by the two nations.
PM Modi Dedicates Award to India and Friendship
Expressing his gratitude, PM Modi said, “I am honoured to be conferred the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Order by His Highness the Amir of Kuwait. I dedicate this honour to the people of India and the enduring friendship between India and Kuwait.”
The Amir of Kuwait commended Modi, saying, “This is our highest medal, and you have earned it. The bonds between India and Kuwait have stood the test of hundreds of years.”
The award, instituted in 1974, has previously been given to global leaders such as Queen Elizabeth II, former US Presidents George HW Bush and Bill Clinton, and Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
A Legacy of Honours
PM Modi has received state honours from 19 countries, including prestigious awards like:
•Order of King Abdul Aziz (Saudi Arabia)
•Order of the State of Palestine
•Order of Zayed (UAE)
•Order of Fiji
•Order of the Nile (Egypt)
Most recently, he was awarded Nigeria’s Grand Commander of the Order of Niger for his contributions to bilateral ties and the Dominica Award of Honour for his role in aiding Dominica during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Significance of the Visit
Modi’s visit to Kuwait is seen as a pivotal moment in India-Kuwait relations. With a one-million-strong Indian community in Kuwait and centuries-old trade ties, this event reflects the mutual respect and collaboration between the nations.