Bratislava/New Delhi, 16 June (HS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred Slovakia's highest civilian honour, the Order of the White Double Cross (First Class), during his visit to the Central European nation.

Receiving the award, Modi expressed gratitude to the people and government of Slovakia and dedicated the honour to the people of India and the friendship between the two countries.

The honour was conferred during the Prime Minister's visit to Bratislava, where he held talks with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation.

The two countries agreed to elevate their relationship to a Comprehensive Partnership and signed a number of agreements covering areas including defence cooperation, labour mobility, digital technologies, higher education and research.

Modi said the award reflected the strong and growing ties between India and Slovakia.

With this recognition, the Prime Minister has received several international honours from foreign governments in recognition of his contributions to strengthening bilateral relations and international cooperation.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar