New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been awarded the Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit by King Harald V during his historic visit to Oslo. This marks the first time an Indian Prime Minister has visited Norway in 43 years.
PM Modi dedicated the prestigious award to the people of India, describing it as a testament to the growing bilateral friendship between the two nations. With this latest recognition, the Prime Minister has now received 32 international honours from foreign nations during his tenure.
Honoured to receive the Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit. This honour is dedicated to the people of India and is a tribute to the enduring friendship between India and Norway. It reflects our shared commitment to global progress. pic.twitter.com/bh7ucPamK4
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 18, 2026
The award ceremony took place during the fourth leg of PM Modi’s five-nation tour, which runs from 15 to 20 May.
PM Modi visited the UAE, the Netherlands, and Sweden before arriving in Oslo and is scheduled to conclude his journey in Italy. During his time in Sweden, PM Modi was also conferred with the country’s highest recognition for foreign heads of government, the Royal Order of the Polar Star Commander Grand Cross.
About Royal Norwegian Order of Merit
The Royal Norwegian Order of Merit was established by King Olav V in 1985 to reward exceptional service rendered in the interests of Norway and humanity. The design of the insignia features the Cross of St. Olav in gold or silver with crowns at its four corners, surrounding a red cross that bears King Olav V’s monogram. According to strict protocol, the Grand Cross is worn with a broad sash extending from the right shoulder down to the left side.
Strengthening trade ties and global harmony
Beyond the ceremony, PM Modi held productive bilateral discussions with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store. The meeting led to the signing of a new health tech memorandum, building on a relationship that has already seen trade double alongside a milestone 100 billion dollar India-EFTA investment pact. Ahead of Tuesday’s India-Nordic Summit which will focus heavily on renewables, digital tech, and Arctic ties the local atmosphere was warmed by cultural dances performed by members of the Indian diaspora.