Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Wednesday conferred the newly established “Speaker of the Knesset Medal”, with Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana presenting the honour in recognition of his “significant contributions to the State of Israel and the Jewish people.”
“This is a historic moment for the Knesset and for the entire State of Israel,” said Ohana.
According to a statement issued by the Knesset spokesperson’s office, PM Modi was selected for the medal because he “significantly strengthened the ties between India and Israel and deepened the strategic cooperation between the countries.”
“During his tenure, cooperation in the fields of security and technology expanded, including joint security technological developments, innovation and cyber. He worked to deepen the political and cultural connection, and strengthened Israel’s position as India’s central partner in the Middle East,” the statement read.
PM Modi in Knesset address: ‘India’s connection to Israel is written in blood and sacrifice’
“The awarding of the decoration to Prime Minister Modi expresses our deep appreciation for his work to create a strategic alliance between Israel and India. His policy is an expression of a courageous, consistent and sincere friendship with the State of Israel, and of a firm stand by its side even in complex and challenging times,” it added.
Reacting to the award, Modi said, “I am deeply honoured to receive the Medal of the Knesset. I accept it with humility and gratitude. This honour is not a tribute to an individual, but to the enduring friendship between India and Israel. It reflects the shared values that guide our two nations.”
With the ‘Speaker of the Knesset Medal’, Prime Minister Modi has joined the select group of global leaders who have received the top honours from both Israel and Palestine.
In 2018, PM Modi was conferred the Grand Collar of the State of Palestine, the highest Palestinian honour for foreign leaders.