Trinidad and Tobago awarded Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi its highest civilian honor, the Order of the Republic, on Friday—the first time it has gone to a foreign leader.

During his first official visit to the country, Modi emphasized the historic ties between the two nations, dating back to Indian indentured laborers arriving in 1845.

The visit focused on strengthening partnerships in energy, health, and security, the DW has reported.

Modi also announced that sixth-generation citizens of Indian origin in Trinidad and Tobago would be eligible for Overseas Citizen of India cards.

Written by B.C. Begley