The Bond of Faith Between India and Mauritius: A Foundation of Friendship, Says PM Modi

Port Louis, March 11 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday celebrated the deep-seated cultural ties that link India and Mauritius, highlighted by the warmth of the diaspora residing in this Indian Ocean island nation.

"Our ancestors were brought to this land from various parts of India. The rich diversity in languages, dialects, and culinary traditions makes this place a true representation of a mini-Hindustan - a small India!" remarked PM Modi while addressing a community event in Port Louis during his two-day State visit, at the invitation of Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam.

This marks PM Modi's first trip to Mauritius since 2015, when he presented India's Vision SAGAR - Security and Growth for All in the Region. This vision, along with the 'Neighbourhood First' policy, 'Act East' policy, 'Think West' policy, and 'Connect Central Asia' policy, continues to shape New Delhi's approach to its neighbors while reinforcing historical and civilizational connections.

"Ten years ago, on this very date, I was in Mauritius. Each time I visit, I feel as if I am among my own kin. There is a sense of belonging that permeates the air, soil, and water here," he expressed, emphasizing that Mauritius remains central to India's SAGAR vision.

"Mauritius is not merely a partner; it is family. This bond is profound and resilient, rooted in our shared history, heritage, and human spirit. When Mauritius encounters challenges, India is quick to respond. When Mauritius thrives, India is the first to rejoice," he stated to the audience, which included PM Ramgoolam, cabinet ministers, diplomats, esteemed guests, and members of the Indian community.

At the event's outset, Prime Minister Ramgoolam announced that his government would award the nation's highest honor, 'The Grand Commander of the Order of the Star' and the Key of the Indian Ocean', to Prime Minister Modi.

Before PM Modi, only five foreign dignitaries, none from India, had received this honor, including Nelson Mandela, South Africa's first democratically elected president who fought against apartheid. This is also the 21st international award conferred upon him by a foreign nation.

"I humbly accept this significant recognition from the people and government of Mauritius. It is not only a personal honor but also a tribute to the historic bond between India and Mauritius," PM Modi remarked.

In a special gesture, PM Modi presented OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) cards to Mauritius President Dharambeer Gokhool and First Lady Vrinda Gokhool.

The Prime Minister also announced that OCI Cards would be extended to the seventh generation of the Indian diaspora in Mauritius.

"When the Pran Pratishtha ceremony was held in Ayodhya, marking the end of a 500-year wait, the enthusiasm and celebration in India was mirrored here in Mauritius. In recognition of your sentiments, Mauritius declared a half-day holiday. This relationship of faith between India and Mauritius is a cornerstone of our friendship," PM Modi added.

He further reminisced about his first visit to Mauritius in 1998 for the International Ramayana Conference.

"At that time, I was not in any governmental role. I visited here as a common worker. Interestingly, Naveen ji was also the Prime Minister then. Now, as Prime Minister, I had the honor of having Naveen ji attend my swearing-in ceremony. The faith and affection I held for Lord Ram and the Ramayana years ago remain with me to this day," he concluded.