PM Modi Receives Brazil’s Highest Civilian Honor in Historic Visit

Brasilia, Brazil – On Tuesday, July 8, 2025, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was bestowed with Brazil’s prestigious Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross, the country’s highest civilian honor, by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The ceremony, held at the Alvorada Palace in Brasilia, marked a significant moment in Modi’s state visit, highlighting the strengthening ties between India and Brazil.

In a joint press statement following delegation-level discussions, Modi expressed deep gratitude for the recognition, describing it as a moment of profound pride and emotion for himself and India’s 1.4 billion citizens. “I extend my heartfelt thanks to President Lula, the Brazilian government, and its people,” Modi stated, emphasizing the honor’s significance for India. He later shared on X, “I’m honored to receive ‘The Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross.’ My gratitude goes to President Lula, the Government, and the people of Brazil.”

The award acknowledges Modi’s significant contributions to fostering India-Brazil relations and advancing bilateral cooperation on global platforms. It marks the 26th international accolade Modi has received from foreign governments since assuming office in May 2014, and the third during his current five-nation tour, which began on July 2.

According to ANI, the conferment ceremony was a highlight of Modi’s visit, which included productive talks with President Lula. The leaders focused on deepening trade relations and diversifying economic ties, expressing optimism about future collaborations. Modi noted that President Lula has consistently championed the India-Brazil friendship, a sentiment echoed in their discussions on enhancing bilateral partnerships.

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The visit also featured a warm cultural welcome, with Modi and Lula enjoying a harmonium performance at the Alvorada Palace. This gesture underscored the growing cultural and diplomatic bonds between the two nations.

Modi’s itinerary included participation in the 17th BRICS Summit in Brazil, further cementing India’s role in global cooperation.