UAE President awards Zayed Medal to Indian Prime Minister

[FILE] His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (L) shakes hands with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of a meeting in New Delhi on January 25, 2017. Money SHARMA / AFP

President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has conferred the Zayed Medal on the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi.

It is the UAE's highest honour awarded to kings, presidents and heads of states.

The award is in appreciation of Modi’s role in consolidating the long-standing friendship and strategic cooperation between the two countries, according to the announcement made on Thursday.

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, said the Indian Prime Minister had played a pivotal role in enhancing bilateral ties to the level of comprehensive strategic relations.

"By granting our dear friend the Indian Prime Minister the Zayed Medal, we express our appreciation for his role and efforts in developing friendly relations and extending bridges of cooperation between the UAE and the Republic of India in various fields," His Highness added.

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed explained that the historical relationship that the UAE shares with India is being renewed strategically and strengthened in preparation for the future.

He praised the values that characterize Indian society in its diversity, especially tolerance, coexistence and respect.

His Highness expressed his pride for the strong friendship and cooperation between the UAE and India, and wished the country and its people continued progress, prosperity, security and stability.

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