Prelims: Current events of National and International importance | International Relations
Why in News?
Cyprus recently awarded Prime Minister Narendra Modi the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, the country's highest honour.
- The Order of Makarios III is the senior order of knighthood awarded by the country.
- It is named after the first President of Cyprus, Archbishop Makarios III.
- Established in – 1991.
- Recipients - It is conferred upon heads of state and other people of significant status in recognition of meritorious service to the nation.
- Other Orders of Cyprus - The President of the Republic always awards the distinctions. They are the following
- Grand Collar of the Order of Makarios III
- Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III
- Grand Commander of the Order of Makarios III
- Commander of the Order of Makarios III
- Officer of the Order of Makarios III
- Knight of the Order of Makarios III
Geography of Cyprus
- Cyprus officially the Republic of Cyprus, is an island country in the eastern Mediterranean Sea.
- It is the third-largest Mediterranean island after Sicily and Sardinia.
- Capital – Nicosia.
- Cyprus lies south of Turkey, west of Syria, and southeast of mainland Greece.
- Mount Olympus (also called Mount Troodos) is the island’s highest point.
- Rivers
- The Pedieos flows toward Famagusta Bay
- The Serakhis and Karyotis flows to Morphou Bay
- The Kouris flows southward to Episkopi Bay.
- Ethnic groups - The people of Cyprus represent two main ethnic groups, Greek and Turkish.
- Religion - The Greek Cypriots are primarily Eastern Orthodox Christians.
- Economy - Cyprus is considered a developed country.
- Cyprus is a member of the European Union.
Reference
Times of India | Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III
