Jerusalem, Feb 25 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi is among the select few global leaders to have been awarded the highest civilian accolades from both Israel and Palestine, showcasing India's impartial and principled stance in West Asian diplomacy.

In a significant gesture for India-Israel relations, Israel's Parliament, the Knesset, awarded the 'Speaker of the Knesset Medal' to PM Modi, marking him as the inaugural recipient of this esteemed honour.

The medal was presented by Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana right after PM Modi's address to the lawmakers in Jerusalem.

This accolade, regarded as the highest acknowledgment from the Knesset, recognizes PM Modi's exceptional leadership in substantially fortifying and enhancing the strategic partnership between India and Israel.

The citation from the Knesset emphasized PM Modi's efforts in advancing bilateral relations in areas such as defence, technology, agriculture, innovation, and economic collaboration.

It also acknowledged his contributions to nurturing more robust ties between the two nations and, by extension, towards the State of Israel and the Jewish community. This newly minted medal highlights the unique connection established during PM Modi's administration.

PM Modi's 2017 trip to Israel marked a pivotal moment, transforming the relationship into a comprehensive strategic partnership, with further dialogues enhancing cooperation in crucial sectors amid common challenges like terrorism and regional security.

This award coincides with PM Modi's visit to Israel, where he delivered a historic address to the Knesset—the first ever by an Indian Prime Minister—receiving an enthusiastic standing ovation from the members. In his speech, he expressed appreciation for the honour, calling it a testament to the lasting friendship between the two democracies.

This accolade enhances PM Modi's unique position on the global stage, as he is one of the rare leaders to be recognized at the highest level by both Israel and Palestine.

In 2018, he was awarded the Grand Collar of the State of Palestine, the highest Palestinian distinction for foreign dignitaries, symbolizing India's equitable diplomacy in the region.

The award has been positively received in both nations as a representation of the growing trust and mutual respect. It reinforces India's commitment to diverse relations with Israel while continuing to support peaceful resolutions in the Middle East.

Observers interpret these awards as a reflection of PM Modi's diplomatic outreach and India's capability to engage constructively with conflicting parties.

In a time of increasing polarization in international relations, the rare achievement of being honored by both Israel and Palestine places PM Modi as a mediator in one of the most delicate geopolitical landscapes worldwide.

India continues to provide humanitarian aid, medical assistance, and developmental support to Palestine while simultaneously strengthening defence and innovation collaborations with Israel, embodying a pragmatic and inclusive foreign policy.

This dual recognition emphasizes India's distinct diplomatic stance. While maintaining strong historical and contemporary ties with the Arab world and the Palestinian populace, India has developed one of the closest strategic relationships with Israel in recent times.

New Delhi has consistently advocated for dialogue and peaceful resolutions to the Israel-Palestine conflict, steering clear of taking sides in a manner that alienates either party.