The Commonwealth of Dominica has revealed plans to bestow its highest national honor upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi in recognition of his support during the country’s fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to Dominica's government, PM Modi will be honored with the Dominica Award of Honour for his role in enhancing bilateral relations.
A statement from the office of the Dominican Prime Minister announced that President Sylvanie Burton will present the award during the India-CARICOM Summit, set to be held in Georgetown, Guyana, from November 19 to 21.
French President Emmanuel Macron awarded PM Modi with the country's highest civilian and military honour, the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour. PTI file
“In February 2021, Prime Minister Modi supplied Dominica with 70,000 doses of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine — a generous gift which enabled Dominica to extend support to its Caribbean neighbours,” the statement said.
This is not the first time the Indian leader will be recognized with a civilian award from another country. As Prime Minister, Modi has received numerous honors for his contributions and his skill in fostering strong international relations.
These are the awards he has received in the past:
France’s Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour: In 2023, French President Emmanuel Macron presented PM Narendra Modi with the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, France's highest civilian and military accolade. This prestigious award is granted to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional merit across various fields.
UAE’s Order of Zayed: In 2019, PM Modi received the Order of Zayed, the United Arab Emirates' highest civilian award. The honor was conferred by Abu Dhabi's Crown Prince, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, during a ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi.
Russia’s Order of St. Andrew the Apostle: Earlier this year, during his visit to Russia, PM Modi was awarded the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle, the nation’s highest chivalric order. This recognition was given for his significant role in strengthening the strategic partnership between India and Russia.
South Korea’s Seoul Peace Prize: In 2019, PM Modi was honored with the 2018 Seoul Peace Prize for his contributions to international cooperation and efforts to promote global economic development.
UN’s Champions of the Earth Award: In 2018, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres presented PM Modi with the Champions of the Earth Award. This is the UN’s highest environmental honor, recognizing outstanding contributions to environmental protection and sustainability in both public and private sectors.
5 Key Facts About India-Nigeria Relations as PM Modi Visits Nigeria
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a three-nation tour starting November 16. Over the span of five days, he will visit Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana.
The tour will begin with a historic visit to Nigeria, marking the first time in 17 years that an Indian prime minister has traveled to the country.
During his time in Nigeria, Modi will meet with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The two leaders will celebrate nearly a decade of the strategic partnership between India and Nigeria.
Highlighting a pivotal moment in deepening bilateral ties, here are five key aspects of the India-Nigeria relationship:
Historical Diplomatic Foundations
Nigeria and India have maintained a long-standing, cordial, and friendly bilateral relationship. With Nigeria's population exceeding 190 million and India’s at 1.4 billion, both nations are vibrant, diverse societies, characterized by their multilingual, multiethnic, and multi-religious makeup.
Their shared histories include struggles against colonial rule and racial discrimination, with both countries achieving independence through prolonged efforts for freedom and self-determination. Together, they have championed the rights of the Global South, advocating for greater multilateral leadership within organizations such as the United Nations, the G77, and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).
Bilateral Visits
The two nations and their leaders have cultivated a strong bond of friendship, mutual respect, and goodwill since India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, made his historic visit to Nigeria in September 1962. His meeting with Nigeria’s first Prime Minister, Tafawa Balewa, laid the foundation for a lasting bilateral relationship.
Nigerian Presidents Shehu Shagari and Olusegun Obasanjo visited India as chief guests for the Republic Day celebrations in 1983 and 2000, respectively.
Trade and Economic Engagements
Nigeria is one of India’s leading suppliers of crude oil, and the two nations share robust trade relations. Additionally, Indian businesses have a significant presence in Nigeria, contributing to sectors such as healthcare, telecommunications, and manufacturing.
Air Connectivity and Economic Integration
Nigeria’s Air Peace has launched direct flights between Lagos and Mumbai under the bilateral air services agreement between the two countries. This initiative enhances economic integration and improves air connectivity.
The partnership bolsters Nigeria’s aviation industry, positioning the country as a key hub for international travel. Increased passenger traffic is expected to drive economic growth by supporting ancillary sectors such as cargo transport and hospitality.
Strategic Alliance in Technology and Education
India's achievements in ICT (Information and Communication Technology) development and digital infrastructure have become a benchmark for Nigeria. Collaborative efforts, including the exchange of technological expertise and innovative practices, can significantly boost Nigeria’s digital economy and governance. Currently, over 130 Indian companies are operating in Nigeria.
The strengthening relationship between India and Nigeria reflects the growing bilateral ties between the two nations, driven by shared economic interests, strategic partnerships, and cultural exchanges.
This partnership holds significant potential for further growth, particularly with both nations playing key roles in regional and global affairs, such as within forums like the G20 and through various economic agreements.
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