Prime Minister Narendra Modi received “The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago,” the country’s highest civilian award, on Friday. President Christine Kangaloo presented the award, making PM Modi the first foreign leader to be so honored, reflecting the strong diplomatic relationship between India and Trinidad and Tobago.
PM Modi expressed his gratitude for the recognition, calling it a point of “collective pride.” He emphasized the deep friendship and shared culture that unites 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,” PM Modi said.
PM Modi emphasized the shared history and cultural ties between India and Trinidad and Tobago, referencing President Kangaloo’s ancestral roots from Tamil Nadu and the teachings of Saint Thiruvalluvar. He also highlighted the strong cultural connections shared by the two nations, referencing cricket and the spice of pepper in their relations.
President Kangaloo expressed her satisfaction in presenting the award and acknowledged PM Modi’s contributions, particularly the 40,000 COVID-19 vaccine doses India provided to Trinidad and Tobago during the pandemic, which further strengthened their relationship.