MUSCAT — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday joined a rare group of global statesmen after His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik conferred on him the First Class of the Order of Oman, the Sultanate’s highest civilian honour.

The award places Modi in the company of internationally revered figures who have previously received the honour, including Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II, South Africa’s Nelson Mandela, Japan’s Emperor Akihito, Queen Máxima of the Netherlands and King Abdullah II of Jordan. The Order of Oman has traditionally been reserved for world leaders and royalty whose engagement has left a lasting impact on Oman’s international relations.

The honour, conferred during Modi’s official visit to the Sultanate, is the 29th international recognition received by the Indian leader, underscoring his growing global stature and India’s expanding diplomatic footprint.

Oman’s highest decoration is awarded in recognition of exceptional contributions to strengthening bilateral ties with the Sultanate. Past recipients have included monarchs, heads of state and global leaders acknowledged for deepening political trust, economic cooperation and long-term partnership with Oman.

For Modi, the conferment carries symbolic significance beyond personal recognition. Speaking after receiving the award, he described it as “an honour for India,” saying it reflected the deep and enduring friendship between the people of India and Oman, rooted in centuries of maritime trade and cultural exchange. “This is a symbol of affection and trust between the people of India and Oman,” he added.

The recognition comes at a moment of renewed momentum in India–Oman relations, marked by high-level talks, expanding economic cooperation and the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) during the visit.

By joining a list that includes icons of global leadership and moral authority, Modi’s inclusion signals not only Oman’s appreciation of his role in advancing bilateral ties, but also India’s emergence as a central player in regional and global diplomacy.