Connecting Maestro to PIC USART

Below is the picture of the modem

View attachment 114945

In the Picture it is connected to PC's RS232 Port directly.
I can communicate to it using MikroC Pro's USART Terminal.

So far I can call and send sms.

I am gonna connect this modem to a PIC's USART.
Question is to Send Data and to check the modems respond what terminal (like CTS) needs to be connected to PIC besides TX and RX ?
And Do I need a RS232 level converter (such as MAX232) between PIC and Modem ?
If yes...

Connecting Maestro to PIC USART