In recognition of his key contribution to promote relations between India and Palestine, Modi was conferred the Grand Collar of the State of Palestine by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. The award was presented after the conclusion of the bilateral meeting between the two leaders.
Modi is the first Indian Prime Minister to make an official visit to Palestine. The Grand Collar is the highest order given to foreign dignitaries – Kings, Heads of State/Government and persons of similar rank. King Salman of Saudi Arabia, King Hamad of Bahrain, President Xi Jinping of China, amongst others received the awards in the past.
After the talk with President Mahmoud Abbas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India is keen to see an independent Palestinian state. Earlier he also met Prime Minister Rami Hamdullah and offered floral tributes on Yasser Arafat’s shrine.