What is France's Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the ‘Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour’, France's highest civilian and military award, on Friday. The honour was presented to PM Modi by the French President, Emmanuel Macron, during a private dinner at the Élysée Palace, an event reflecting the robust partnership between both nations.

PM Modi, who is on an official two-day visit to France, will attend the Bastille Day parade, the celebration of the French National Day, in Paris as the Guest of Honour.

The honour PM Modi received is a reflection of the warm and burgeoning relations between India and France, read a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs. 

“A warm gesture embodying the spirit of partnership. PM Narendra Modi conferred with the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, the highest award in France by President Emmanuel Macron," tweeted Arindam Bagchi, the spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)

A warm gesture embodying the spirit of __-__ partnership.

PM @narendramodi conferred with the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, the highest award in France by President @EmmanuelMacron. pic.twitter.com/OyiHCHMDX2

— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) July 13, 2023

What is the Legion of Honour?

The Legion of Honour, established by Napoleon Bonaparte, is France's highest recognition, conferred on both military and civilian orders. This eminent decoration comes in five degrees, with the Grand Cross being the apex. It is typically given to individuals who have demonstrated remarkable merit in military or civilian services, which also includes foreigners who have supported causes championed by France. Occasionally, it is also bestowed upon state visitors, as per France's foreign policy.

The insignia of the Grand Cross comprises a five-armed Maltese asterisk on an oak and laurel wreath, adorned with a red ribbon. While it holds no material or financial advantages, its prestige is globally recognised.

Other global leaders who received this honour

Several world leaders and eminent personalities, who have made substantial contributions to their respective fields, have received the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour in the past. A few notable recipients include Nelson Mandela, Angela Merkel, King Charles, Boutros Boutros-Ghali, and Queen Elizabeth II.

Importance of the Award 

PM Narendra Modi made history by becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to get this accolade. This gesture is seen as a reflection of the strengthening of partnership between India and France.

France and India are also celebrating 25 years of strategic relationships this year.  The conferring of the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour on Prime Minister Modi bears testament to the strong bond between India and France. This move holds considerable significance in enhancing the bilateral relationship between the two nations, and stands as a symbol of mutual respect and recognition.

The honour conferred on PM Modi holds immense significance for India. It exemplifies international recognition of India's leadership and its role on the global stage. Furthermore, it underscores PM Modi's diplomatic efforts in bolstering India's bilateral and multilateral relations, particularly with France. It also marks a significant step in fostering and cementing the strategic partnership between India and France. Such partnerships are vital for India in diplomacy, defense, space cooperation, climate change initiatives, and trade relations.

Other international awards received by PM Modi

PM Modi has received many international honours in the last 9 years since he took office in May 2014. Apart from the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, the Prime Minister has received 13 other high ranking civilian honours from different countries.

Last month, he was awarded the ‘Order of the Nile’ , the highest state honour of Egypt. Some of his other accolades include the Chief Commander of the Legion of Merit from the United States in 2020, the Order of St Andrew Award from Russia in 2019, United Arab Emirates’ the Order of Zayed Award and the Seoul Peace Prize from South Korea in 2018, among others.