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New Delhi: The foreign honors received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi between 2016 and 2025 tell a long story of India's changing image. These awards are not the result of any speech or claim but are an indication of the relationships that India has built with the world over the years.
In 2016, when Afghanistan and Saudi Arabia honored Prime Minister Modi with their highest civilian honors, it was seen as a beginning. At that time the message was clear that India is now considered not just an emerging economy but a reliable partner.

After this came 2019, when India's relations with the Gulf countries seemed to be moving in a new direction. The respect received from countries like the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Maldives, and Palestine was an indication that India's views are now being listened to carefully in these areas. This was not just a formality but a public acknowledgment of mutual trust.
In 2020, America gave the 'Legion of Merit' honor to Prime Minister Modi. This is an award that very few foreign leaders receive. This was seen as a clear reflection of the trust and partnership in India-US relations.
The pace of receiving honors increased further in 2023. Many countries in Europe, Africa, the Pacific Islands, and the Middle East honored Prime Minister Modi. Awards received from countries like Greece, France, Egypt, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and Palau show that India's presence is no longer limited to its neighborhood only.
In 2024, countries like Russia, Bhutan, Kuwait, Barbados, Dominica, Niger, and Guyana honored Prime Minister Modi with their highest civilian honors. These honors also show that India is maintaining balanced relations with countries with different political and cultural backgrounds.
In 2025, Trinidad and Tobago, Ghana, Cyprus, Sri Lanka, and Mauritius also honored Prime Minister Modi. These honors show that India's hold has now strengthened in the Caribbean, Africa, and the Indian Ocean region.
The highest civilian honors received from 25 countries in almost a decade are an indication that today the world is not only seeing India but is also trusting it.
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