Jerusalem: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Wednesday conferred with the Speaker of the Knesset Medal, recognising his exceptional role in strengthening strategic ties between India and Israel.

The Indian Prime Minister is the first world leader to receive this medal, which represents the highest honour of the Knesset, the Israeli Parliament.

Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana presented the award to PM Modi following his address at the Israeli Parliament, highlighting the prime minister’s personal leadership in fostering bilateral relations.

Honoured by both Israel and Palestine

The award underscores PM Modi’s unique distinction as one of the few global leaders to receive top honours from both Israel and Palestine.

In 2018, PM Modi was conferred the Grand Collar of the State of Palestine, which is the highest Palestinian honour for foreign leaders.

This marks PM Modi’s second visit to Israel in nine years. During his first visit in July 2017, the India-Israel relationship was elevated to the level of a strategic partnership, laying the foundation for ongoing collaboration in defence, technology, and diplomacy.