PM Modi gets Israel’s top parliamentary honour, first Indian PM to receive it

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with Israel’s top parliamentary honour, 'Speaker of the Knesset Medal' on Wednesday in recognition of his exceptional contribution to strengthening strategic relations between India and Israel. He became the first leader to receive this medal.

The award was conferred by the Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana after PM Modi's address at the Israeli Parliament.

Also read: India joins Israel and the world for a dialogue, peace and stability in Middle East, says PM Modi at Knesset


The 'Speaker of the Knesset Medal' was conferred to the prime minister in recognition of his exceptional contribution - through his personal leadership - to strengthen strategic relations between India and Israel.

PM Modi is a rare global leader who has received top awards from both Israel and Palestine. In his visit to Palestine in 2018, He was conferred the Grand Collar of the State of Palestine, which is the highest Palestinian honour for foreign leaders.

During his address at the Knesset, he highlighted that India's economic growth and Israel's innovation create a 'natural foundation' for partnership.

India has launched the first round of negotiations for a free trade agreement with Israel.

"Our bilateral goods trade has grown significantly in recent years, but it does not reflect the full scope of opportunity. That is why our teams are working hard to negotiate an ambitious free trade agreement. It will unlock the vast untapped potential in our trade relationship," PM Modi said.