In a prestigious diplomatic gesture, Brazil conferred the "Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross"—the country's highest civilian award — on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The honour was presented by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, in recognition of PM Modi's notable contributions to strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing India-Brazil cooperation across key global platforms. Notably, this is the 26th international honour bestowed upon PM Modi by a foreign government since he assumed office in May 2014.
The award is reserved for foreign heads of state and is considered one of the most distinguished honours Brazil bestows to acknowledge exemplary leadership and efforts in strengthening international relations. The ‘Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross’ has previously been awarded to world leaders such as US President Dwight D Eisenhower, Queen Elizabeth II, and former South African President Nelson Mandela.
PM Modi thanks Brazilian President
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed heartfelt gratitude to Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva for the grand welcome extended during his visit to Rio de Janeiro and Brasília. PM Modi also described the honour as a moment of immense pride not just for himself but for 140 crore Indians. "The President conferring Brazil's highest honour on me is not just a matter of pride for me, but for 140 crore Indians... President Lula is the chief architect of India-Brazil strategic partnership... I dedicate this honour to our friendship and his deep commitment towards India... We have decided to take bilateral trade to $20 billion in the next five years... Football is the soul of Brazil, while cricket is the Indians' passion. Whether the ball goes beyond the boundary or is in the goal post, a partnership of $20 billion is not difficult," he added.
PM Modi stresses on importance of people-to-people ties
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also underlined the importance of strong people-to-people ties in strengthening the relationship between India and Brazil. Highlighting shared passions and democratic values, Modi said, "Our deep interest in sports brings us together. We want India-Brazil relations to be as colourful as a carnival, as energetic as a game of football, and as heart-connecting as the Samba." "On a global level, India and Brazil have always worked in close coordination. Like two big democracies, our cooperation is relevant not just for the Global South but the whole of humanity... When the world is reeling under times of stress and uncertainty, India and Brazil's partnership is an important pillar of stability and balance... Our idea on the fight against terrorism is the same. Zero tolerance and zero double standards is our clear stand. We strongly oppose terror and the supporters of terrorism," he added.
PM Modi received ceremonial welcome
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm ceremonial welcome at the Alvorada Palace in Brazil. PM Modi and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva shared a hug as the President received the PM at Alvorada Palace in Brasilia. The Prime Minister was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour. The national anthems of India and Brazil were played at Alvorada Palace. He also received a unique 114-horse welcome at the ceremonial welcome at Alvorada Palace in Brasilia.
PM Modi in Brazil
PM Modi enjoyed the Indian classical musical presentation which used traditional instruments such as the Harmonium and Tabla at his ceremonial welcome at Alvorada Palace in Brasilia. The Prime Minister also witnessed a cultural performance. He appreciated the artists and interacted with them after their performance. It is to be noted here that PM Modi will hold bilateral discussions with the Brazilian President on broadening the Strategic Partnership between the two countries in areas of mutual interest, including trade, defence, energy, space, technology, agriculture, health, and people-to-people linkages.
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