Prime Minister Modi Receives Uzbekistan's Prestigious 'Oliy Darajali Do'stlik' Award
Modi Honored with Uzbekistan's Highest Award
PM Modi being conferred with Uzbekistan's prestigious 'Oliy Darajali Do'stlik' by Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. (Photo:PTI)
Tashkent, Aug 30: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has added yet another international accolade to his achievements by receiving Uzbekistan's highest honor for foreign dignitaries, the 'Oliy Darajali Do'stlik' Order, on Sunday.
This award symbolizes the strong ties between India and Uzbekistan and marks the 36th international state honor awarded to Modi. The honor was presented by Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
During his acceptance speech, Modi expressed his pride in receiving this recognition and highlighted that the term 'Dostlik' is well-known among the Indian populace.
“In nearly every Indian household, the word ‘Dostlik’ is uttered countless times daily. Today, you have truly captured its essence. ‘Dostlik’ signifies friendship, and it beautifully encapsulates the spirit of the relationship between India and Uzbekistan,” he remarked.
Modi emphasized that this award is not just a personal accolade but a recognition for the 1.4 billion citizens of India.
“On behalf of all Indians, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the people of Uzbekistan, the government, and my esteemed friend, the President. I humbly accept this prestigious honor and dedicate it to the long-standing friendship between our nations and our shared heritage,” he stated.
The Ministry of External Affairs shared on social media that Modi received this honor for his efforts in enhancing the friendship between the two nations.
“PM dedicated the accolade to the 1.4 billion people of India and emphasized that it symbolizes the lasting friendship between our two civilizations,” the ministry's post noted.
Modi is currently on a two-day visit to Uzbekistan, focusing on enhancing bilateral cooperation in various sectors, including trade, clean energy, and connectivity.
Previously, Modi engaged in discussions with Mirziyoyev, resulting in an agreement to elevate their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
In related news, BJP president Nitin Nabin praised the awarding of Uzbekistan's highest state honor to Modi, calling it a “moment of pride for every Indian” and indicative of the increasing “global recognition” of the Prime Minister's leadership.
Following his time in Tashkent, Modi is set to travel to Kyrgyzstan to attend the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit from August 31 to September 1.