Dili: President Droupadi Murmu was conferred the Grand-Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste, the country’s highest civilian award, by her counterpart José Ramos-Horta on Saturday.

Murmu, 66, received the award for her achievements in public service and dedication to education, social welfare and women empowerment, her office said in a post on X.

Murmu’s trip is the first-ever presidential visit from India to the Southeast Asian nation.

She was warmly received by President Ramos-Horta at the airport, her office said. Cheerful children greeted her on the way from the airport.

She was also accorded a ceremonial reception and guard of honour in the Presidential Palace, Dili.

President Murmu held extensive discussions with her counterpart Ramos-Horta on enhancing bilateral cooperation in diverse fields.

“India and Timor-Leste share warm and friendly relations based on our shared commitment to the values of democracy and pluralism. I am confident that this will further strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries,” she said.