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In a moment of high diplomatic honour, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Tuesday presented with Brazil's highest civilian award — the 'Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross' — by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. The gesture reflects not just protocol, but deep respect for PM Narendra Modi’s efforts in strengthening the bond between the two countries India and Brazil. Modi's consistent and meaningful contributions to advancing co-operation on global platforms and building strong bilateral ties have earned him such a grand prestigious recognition.

 

This marks the 26th international honour awarded to PM Modi by a foreign government since he took office in May 2014.

#WATCH | Brasilia, Brazil: President Lula confers Brazil's highest civilian honour, the ‘Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross’, on PM Narendra Modi.

Source: ANI/DD pic.twitter.com/yZT8O0w4UN

— ANI (@ANI) July 8, 2025

 

The “Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross” is exclusively reserved for foreign heads of state and stands as one of Brazil's most prestigious honours. It is given in recognition of outstanding worldwide leadership and contributions to the advancement of international diplomacy. Global leaders like former South African President Nelson Mandela, Queen Elizabeth II, and former US President Dwight D Eisenhower are among the past recipients.

 

PM Modi's ceremonial welcome

 

Prime Minister Modi received a lavish ceremonial welcome at Brasilia's Alvorada Palace earlier in the day. PM Modi was greeted warmly by Brazilian President Lula da Silva at the official residence. The national anthems of Brazil and India were played, and a ceremonial guard of honour was presented. Notably, a special 114-horse parade honouring the visiting Indian leader was part of the welcome.

 

#WATCH | Brasilia, Brazil: PM Narendra Modi says, "In the field of energy, our cooperation is constantly increasing. Environment and clean energy are the main priorities of both countries. To increase cooperation in this field, today's agreement will give a new momentum to our… pic.twitter.com/mUtB20NwxX

— ANI (@ANI) July 8, 2025

Bilateral Agenda and Cultural Reception

 

PM Modi took in a classical Indian musical performance that included traditional instruments like the harmonium and tabla as part of the welcome. When he spoke to the artists and expressed his appreciation for their work after attending a cultural presentation.

 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit anticipated to have one-on-one conversations with President Lula to enhance the India-Brazil Strategic Partnership. There will be discussions on important issues of mutual interest, including trade, energy, defence, space cooperation, technology, agriculture, healthcare, and enhancing people-to-people relations between the two nations.

 

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