JERUSALEM, Israel — Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Wednesday that he accepted Israel’s Medal of the Knesset with humility and gratitude, describing the honor as a recognition of the enduring friendship between India and Israel rather than a personal accolade.
Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, conferred the Speaker of the Knesset Medal on Modi, making him the first recipient of the prestigious award. Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana presented the medal immediately after Modi addressed lawmakers in Jerusalem.
“This honour is not a tribute to an individual, but to the enduring friendship between India and Israel,” Modi wrote on X following the ceremony.
The official citation highlighted Modi’s role in strengthening bilateral relations across defense, technology, agriculture, innovation, and economic cooperation. The award is described as the highest recognition bestowed by the Knesset and acknowledges what it called Modi’s exceptional personal leadership in elevating the strategic partnership between the two countries.
“I am deeply honoured to receive the Medal of the Knesset,” Modi said, adding that he accepted it “with humility and gratitude.”
The prime minister also said the award reflects the shared democratic values guiding both nations. After his address to the Knesset, Modi said he and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu were traveling to an exhibition showcasing technological advancements.
The honor comes during Modi’s visit to Israel, where he delivered a historic address to the Knesset, the first by an Indian prime minister, and received a standing ovation from members. In his remarks, Modi again emphasized that the recognition symbolized the deep and enduring ties between the two democracies.
The distinction further adds to Modi’s global profile, as he remains among the few world leaders to have received top-level honors from both Israel and Palestine. (Source: IANS)
