PM Narendra Modi Dedicates Barbados’ Highest Honor To 1.4 Billion Indians

On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked the Government and people of Barbados for honoring him with the ‘Honorary Order of Freedom of Barbados Award’.

PM Modi dedicated the recognition to the 1.4 billion people of India and the strong ties between the two nations.

Taking to X, PM Modi posted, “Grateful to the Government and the people of Barbados for this honour. Dedicate the ‘Honorary Order of Freedom of Barbados’ Award to the 1.4 billion Indians and to the close relations between India and Barbados.”

His response came after Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita received the award on his behalf from Barbados President Dame Sandra Mason.

Margherita shared pictures and videos from the ceremony held in Bridgetown, stating that the honor was a tribute to PM Modi’s strategic leadership and significant support during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Honoured to receive, on behalf of Hon. PM Shri @narendramodi ji the ‘Honorary Order of Freedom of Barbados’ Award from the President of Barbados, H.E @DameSandraMason, at the Government House in Bridgetown, in the presence of PM H.E @miaamormottley, FM H.E @KerrieD246 and other dignitaries. The award was bestowed upon PM in acknowledgment of his strategic leadership & significant assistance during the Covid-19 pandemic,” Margherita posted on X.

Ministry Of External Affairs’ Statement

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement highlighting, “In a ceremony held in Bridgetown, Barbados, Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, Shri Pabitra Margherita received the prestigious ‘Honorary Order of Freedom of Barbados’ Award bestowed upon Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in recognition of his strategic leadership and valuable assistance during the Covid-19 pandemic.”

According to the ministry, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley announced the honor on 20 November during her meeting with PM Modi in Guyana. She praised Modi’s efforts in enhancing global collaboration and assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, SC, MP, announced the award during her meeting with Prime Minister Modi on 20 November 2024, at the 2nd India-CARICOM Leaders’ Summit in Georgetown, Guyana. Prime Minister Mottley acknowledged the vital role played by Prime Minister Modi in strengthening international cooperation and support during the unprecedented situation during COVID19 pandemic,” the statement added.

While accepting the award on behalf of PM Modi, Margherita conveyed his appreciation for the recognition.

He asserted, “It is a profound honour to represent Prime Minister Narendra Modi and accept this prestigious award on his behalf. This recognition underscores the deepening ties between India and Barbados, as well as our shared commitment to collaboration and development, especially in times of crisis.”

The MEA statement further emphasized the longstanding relationship between the two countries, noting, “Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1966, India and Barbados have fostered a robust partnership characterized by continuous engagement and development initiatives. This award symbolizes the enduring friendship between the two nations.”

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