PM Modi among rare leaders to be conferred with highest awards from both Israel, Palestine
PTC News Desk: The Knesset awarded the ‘Speaker of the Knesset Medal’, its highest honour, to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday after his speech in the Israeli Parliament. He became the first leader to receive this medal.
The award was given in recognition of Modi’s personal leadership and his role in strengthening strategic relations between India and Israel.
Earlier, in 2018, Modi was also awarded the Grand Collar of the State of Palestine, the highest honour given by Palestine to foreign leaders.
After his speech, Modi met members of the Israeli Parliament, who took selfies and photographs with him. He received a standing ovation and loud applause during his address.
In his speech, Modi said people in India admire Israel’s courage, determination, and achievements. He noted that ties between the two nations go back over 2,000 years. Ancient texts like the Book of Esther and the Talmud mention India, showing early cultural and trade links.
He also said Jewish merchants came to India long ago and became part of Indian society. Jewish communities have lived in India peacefully, practicing their faith freely without facing discrimination.
Modi highlighted that strong people-to-people ties are at the core of the India-Israel relationship. He said yoga has become very popular in Israel, and interest in Ayurveda is also growing. He invited young Israelis to visit India and experience its culture and wellness traditions.
He also mentioned that the Indian Parliament has created a Parliamentary Friendship Group for Israel and invited Israeli lawmakers to visit India to strengthen cooperation and exchanges.
- With inputs from agencies
