Our Bureau
Bratislava
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred Slovakia’s highest civilian honour, the Order of the White Double Cross (First Class), during his official visit to Bratislava, becoming the recipient of his 33rd international award from a foreign nation. The honour was presented in recognition of his contribution to strengthening bilateral ties between India and Slovakia and advancing international cooperation.
Accepting the award, Modi dedicated it to the people of India and the enduring friendship between India and Slovakia. The recognition came during a landmark visit that also saw the two countries elevate their relationship to a “Comprehensive Partnership,” signalling deeper cooperation across sectors such as defence, security, artificial intelligence, space technology, innovation and civil nuclear energy.
The visit was historic as it marked the first-ever trip by an Indian Prime Minister to Slovakia since the country gained independence in 1993. Modi held extensive talks with Slovak President Peter Pellegrini and Prime Minister Robert Fico on expanding economic, technological and strategic cooperation.
During his stay, the Prime Minister also engaged with business leaders, paid tribute at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Bratislava and participated in cultural events highlighting the growing people-to-people ties between the two nations. A special yoga demonstration by Slovak schoolchildren ahead of International Day of Yoga underscored the cultural dimension of the relationship.
The Slovak honour follows a series of international recognitions conferred on Modi by countries across Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the Pacific, reflecting India’s expanding diplomatic outreach. The visit also coincided with another milestone for Modi, who completed his 100th foreign trip as Prime Minister since taking office in 2014.
