New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said it is a proud moment for the people of the country as President Draupadi Murmu was conferred the Grand Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste. He said it reflects the strong ties and mutual respect between the two countries.

President Draupadi Murmu was on Saturday conferred the country's highest civilian honour, the 'Grand-Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste', for her achievements in public service and dedication to education, social welfare and women's empowerment.

'It is a proud moment for us to be honoured with this award'

"It is a proud moment for us to see Rashtrapatiji being conferred with Timor-Leste's highest civilian honour - the Grand Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste," Prime Minister Modi said in a post on 'X'.

PM Modi said, 'This reflects the strong ties and mutual respect between our countries. It is also a recognition of his monumental contribution to public life over many years.'

This honour is a reflection of the friendly relations between India and Timor-Leste

After receiving the award, President Murmu said that this honor is a reflection of the friendly relations between India and Timor-Leste. Let us tell you that President Murmu arrived in Timor Leste on Saturday after completing her visit to Fiji and New Zealand. As a special honor, President Jose Ramos-Horta gave her a warm welcome at the airport.

He also held a bilateral meeting with his Timor Leste counterpart in Dili, during which he underscored the strong ties between the two countries. The two leaders also discussed opportunities to enhance bilateral cooperation between India and Timor Leste. President Murmu's visit is the first head of state level visit from India to the Southeast Asian country. He also addressed the Indian Community Reception in Dili.

The invitation was extended by Timor Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta

President Murmu was accorded a ceremonial welcome and a guard of honour at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in Dili. The President's visit to Timor Leste has come at the invitation of Timor Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta.