ENGLISH TRANSLATION OF PM'S ACCEPTANCE SPEECH DURING THE CONFERMENT OF THE 'GRAND CROSS OF THE ORDER OF MAKARIOS III' OF CYPRUS

India, June 16 -- The Government of India issued the following news release:

Your Excellency Mr. President,

I thank you, the Government and the people of Cyprus for bestowing upon me "The Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III".

This is not just an honour bestowed on Narendra Modi. It is an honour bestowed on the 1.4 billion Indians. It is a recognition of their strength and aspirations. It is a recognition for our rich cultural heritage and the philosophy of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,' that is " The world is one family".

I dedicate it to the friendly relations between India and Cyprus, to our shared values, and to our mutual understanding. I humbly accept this award with gratitude, on behalf of all Indians.

This Award is a symbol of ou...