Colombo:Sri Lanka has awarded Prime Minister Narendra Modi the prestigious ‘Mitra Vibhushan’ medal. The Sri Lankan government recognized PM Modi for his efforts in enhancing bilateral relations between the two countries and advancing their shared cultural heritage. This honor comes as a recognition of Modi’s contribution to strengthening the ties between India and Sri Lanka. To date, PM Modi has received 22 international awards from various countries.
The medal features a Dharma Chakra, symbolizing Buddhist heritage, a nod to the deep cultural ties between India and Sri Lanka that have existed for centuries. The significance of this award is heightened by the fact that Sri Lanka has shown a growing inclination towards China in recent years.
China has been trying to increase its influence in Sri Lanka over the past several years, but Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Sri Lanka and subsequent honor with the Mitra Vibhushan medal signals that Sri Lanka is keen on maintaining its traditional policy of giving importance to India.
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumar Dissanayake presented the ‘Mitra Vibhushan’ award to Prime Minister Modi. On receiving the award, Modi stated, “This honor is not just for me, but for the 1.4 billion people of India. It reflects the deep friendship and historical ties between India and Sri Lanka.” President Dissanayake also remarked that the relationship between India and Sri Lanka has always been close, based on religious and cultural connections, and Prime Minister Modi truly deserves this recognition.
The Mitra Vibhushan medal features a Kalash symbol, alongside rice leaves, symbolizing prosperity. The medal also showcases nine jewels and the moon and sun, which represent the historical relationship between the two nations. The design signifies that the bonds between India and Sri Lanka will remain warm and enduring, both in the past and in the future.
Following talks between Prime Minister Modi and President Dissanayake, both countries signed agreements to develop Trincomalee as an energy hub and to enhance multi-sectoral grant assistance. Furthermore, India and Sri Lanka signed defense cooperation agreements. The two leaders also virtually inaugurated the Sampur solar energy project. President Dissanayake assured PM Modi that Sri Lanka would not allow its territory to be used for actions contrary to India’s security interests.