Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was today congratulated by President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for being conferred with one of Japan's top awards.
"I am extremely happy to know that the Government of Japan has conferred one of its highest civilian honours - 'The Grand Cordon of the Order of the Paulownia Flowers' upon you, making you the first Indian ever to receive this award," Mukherjee said in his message to Singh.
"This important recognition is testimony to the immense service rendered by you over the years for the promotion of India-Japan relations and friendship," he added.
Extending his hearty congratulations and best wishes, the President said, "I am sure the entire nation will rejoice at this much deserved honour conferred on you."
Modi said the development was a matter of joy and pride.
"Matter of joy & pride that Japan has conferred Dr. Manmohan Singh with Grand Cordon of the Order of the Paulownia Flowers. Congrats to him," said Modi.
Singh was today conferred with the award, one of Japan's top national awards, becoming the first Indian to receive the rare honour.
The 82-year-old former Prime Minister was presented the award by Japanese Emperor Akihito for his "significant contribution to the enhancement of relations and promotion of friendship" between Japan and India for about 35 years.
Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko hosted a luncheon for Singh and his wife Gursharan at the Imperial Palace after the award ceremony, Kyodo News Agency reported.
Singh had earlier said he was truly honoured and felt "humbled by the love and affection showered upon me by the people and government of Japan".
He said it had been his dream to see India-Japan relationship grow and prosper and "this is an objective towards which I have worked, not only in my tenure as the Prime Minister of India, but across the larger part of my career in public service".
Singh, who served as the Prime Minister for 10 years from 2004, said he was heartened to witness the transformation in India-Japan relations into a durable partnership.
