PM Modi Honoured with Brazil’s Highest Civilian Award, Grand State Welcome Marks Historic Visit
News Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred Brazil’s highest civilian honour, the Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross, by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva during a grand state ceremony in Brasilia. The rare distinction is awarded exclusively to foreign dignitaries who have significantly strengthened bilateral ties with Brazil — and marks Modi’s 26th international award from foreign governments.
Modi, on the fourth leg of his five-nation tour after attending the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, arrived in the Brazilian capital to a ceremonial reception unlike any in recent memory. He was received with a 114-horse guard of honour, military salute, and the solemn playing of both national anthems at the Palácio da Alvorada, the official residence of the Brazilian President.
I’m honoured to have been conferred ‘The Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross.’ Gratitude to President Lula, the Government and the people of Brazil. This illustrates the strong affection the people of Brazil have for the people of India. May our friendship… pic.twitter.com/MpKS9FgsES
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 8, 2025
The festivities began right from the tarmac, where Modi was welcomed with the electrifying beats of Batala Mundo, a traditional Afro-Brazilian Samba-Reggae band — a gesture the Indian PM described as symbolic of Brazil’s vibrant cultural heritage aiming for global recognition.
During the state reception, President Lula da Silva embraced Modi warmly, underlining a deepening diplomatic bond. The leaders held bilateral talks that culminated in the signing of several key MoUs focused on science, technology, energy, trade, space cooperation, and cultural exchange. Both sides emphasised a shared vision for South-South cooperation and global multipolarity.
President Lula praised India’s rising global leadership and acknowledged Modi’s personal role in advancing India-Brazil ties. In his acceptance remarks, PM Modi said, “This honour is not just mine—it is a recognition of the mutual respect and growing friendship between our two great nations.”
Modi’s state visit — the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Brazil in nearly six decades — is seen as a significant diplomatic milestone. The two nations are not only BRICS partners but also key voices from the Global South working towards a more inclusive world order.
In the final leg of his tour, PM Modi will visit Namibia, continuing India’s outreach to Africa and Latin America amid shifting geopolitical landscapes.
