A short while ago, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake conferred the "Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana" (Decoration of Sri Lankan Friendship), the nation’s highest civilian honor, upon Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Introduced in February 2008 by then-President Mahinda Rajapaksa, this prestigious award is reserved for Heads of State and Government who demonstrate exceptional friendship and solidarity with Sri Lanka. Modi, honored during his visit, dedicated the accolade to India’s 140 crore people, emphasizing India’s unwavering support during Sri Lanka’s crises—be it the 2019 terror attacks, the Covid-19 pandemic, or the recent economic downturn.

The "Mitra Vibhushana" medal, rich in symbolism, reflects the deep ties between the two nations. Worn around the neck on a 6.5 cm-wide ribbon, the silver medal is studded with nine Sri Lankan gems (Navarathna) and adorned with a lotus, globe, sun, moon, and sheaves of rice. The "Dharma Chakra" signifies their shared Buddhist heritage, the "Pun Kalasa" (ceremonial pot) represents prosperity, and the "Sun and Moon" denote a timeless bond stretching from antiquity to the future. A citation accompanies the medal, and recipients’ names are recorded in a register maintained under the President’s direction.

President Dissanayake’s decision to honor Modi underscores India’s role as a steadfast ally. Taking precedence over National Honours for non-Sri Lankans, the award, as Modi noted, celebrates not just personal goodwill but the cultural and spiritual connection between the two countries. This recognition reaffirms a partnership poised for continued growth and mutual support.