Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam announced on Tuesday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would be conferred with The Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean, the highest national honour of Mauritius.
This recognition marks a significant diplomatic milestone, as PM Modi becomes the first Indian to receive this prestigious award. It is also the 21st international award conferred upon the Indian leader by a foreign country.
During the announcement, PM Ramgoolam described the honour as “very fitting” for PM Modi, emphasizing his role in strengthening ties between India and Mauritius. He highlighted that since Mauritius became a Republic, only five foreign dignitaries have received this prestigious title, including Nelson Mandela, who was awarded it in 1998.
The announcement took place at a special event attended by the Indian community in Mauritius, where the national anthems of both India and Mauritius were played in the presence of PM Modi and PM Ramgoolam.
During his visit, PM Modi attended the Mauritius National Day celebrations as the Chief Guest, underscoring the deep-rooted diplomatic and cultural ties between the two nations. The visit saw PM Modi actively engaging in several events aimed at strengthening bilateral relations.
In a special gesture, PM Modi presented Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards to Mauritius President Dharambeer Gokhool and First Lady Brinda Gokhool. He also gifted the President with a pot of holy Sangam water from Mahakumbh, a symbol of spiritual and cultural significance. Additionally, PM Modi presented superfood Makhana and a Banarasi Saree encased in a traditional Sadeli box to the First Lady.
During his engagements, PM Modi visited the Ayurveda Garden at the State House in Mauritius, a project developed in collaboration with the Government of India. Accompanied by President Gokhool, PM Modi admired the garden’s role in promoting traditional Indian medicine. Expressing his satisfaction, PM Modi praised the increasing popularity of Ayurveda in Mauritius.
Reflecting on his visit, PM Modi expressed gratitude for the warm reception extended by the Mauritian leadership. During a special lunch hosted by President Gokhool, PM Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to further strengthening its partnership with Mauritius.
“It is once again my privilege to attend the National Day celebrations of Mauritius as the Chief Guest,” PM Modi remarked. He described the occasion as a reflection of the strong and enduring friendship between India and Mauritius.
(Inputs from ANI)