New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been awarded the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle, the highest civilian award of the Russian Federation through a Presidential decree, a Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) press statement said on April 12.

The award is being given to the Prime Minister for his distinguished achievement in developing the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between Russia and India and deepening the friendly relations between the peoples of the two countries.

The award which is given for exceptional services has, since its inception in 1998, been conferred on 18 distinguished personalities.

India greatly appreciates this honour bestowed upon the Prime Minister by the President of the Russian Federation.

The award signifies the special and enduring strategic partnership between India and Russia marked by exceptional warmth and friendship extending to our people.