Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Monday (May 18, 2026) conferred with Norway’s highest civilian honour, the Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit, for his contribution to advancing the India-Norway relationship and his leadership.

This is Prime Minister Modi’s 32nd international honour.

Also read: PM Modi’s Norway visit highlights on May 18, 2026

King Harald V of Norway conferred upon PM Modi the Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit.

“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,” PM Modi said on social media.

Prime Minister Modi described the honour as a reflection of the affection and goodwill between the people of India and Norway.

The Grand Cross is the highest grade of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit. It is awarded for exceptional service in advancing Norway’s interests and international relations.

A day earlier, PM Modi was awarded Sweden’s prestigious ‘Royal Order of the Polar Star, Degree Commander Grand Cross’ in recognition of his exceptional contributions to bilateral ties and his visionary leadership.

The award is Sweden’s highest honour conferred on foreign Heads of Government.

PM Modi arrived in Oslo earlier in the day on a two-day visit from Sweden. This is PM Modi’s maiden visit to Norway and marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in 43 years.