PM Modi Graces National Day Celebrations in Mauritius, Celebrates Strong Bonds Between Nations
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Synopsis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the National Day celebrations in Mauritius as Chief Guest for the second time, emphasizing the historic and cultural ties between India and Mauritius. The event also marked PM Modi receiving the prestigious GCSK award, the highest civilian honor of Mauritius, solidifying the unique friendship between the two nations.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi attended Mauritius's National Day for the second time.
- He received the highest civilian award from Mauritius.
- The award was dedicated to the friendship between India and Mauritius.
- An Indian Navy contingent participated in the celebrations.
- Significant bilateral ties rooted in shared history and culture.
Port Louis, March 12 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the National Day festivities of Mauritius as the Chief Guest for the second time, a privilege he first received in 2015.
"I am honored to be part of Mauritius's National Day celebrations! I wish the people of Mauritius ongoing prosperity and success as we further strengthen the deep-rooted connections between our nations," PM Modi shared on X following the event.
During the celebrations, President Dharambeer Gokhool of Mauritius conferred the 'Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean' (GCSK) award on Prime Minister Modi, marking the first occasion that an Indian leader has received this prestigious honor.
PM Modi dedicated this accolade to the unique friendship shared between India and Mauritius, as well as the 1.4 billion residents of India and their 1.3 million counterparts in Mauritius.
The Mauritian government announced on Tuesday its decision to award the country's highest honor, 'The Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean', to Prime Minister Modi during his ongoing two-day State Visit to this Indian Ocean nation.
Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam of Mauritius made this announcement just before PM Modi commenced his address at an Indian community event in Port Louis on Tuesday evening. Prime Minister Modi is the first Indian recipient of this honor.
This also marks the 21st international award presented to PM Modi by a nation.
"This is a fitting tribute for you, Prime Minister. Since our republic's inception, only five foreign dignitaries have received this title, among them the individual we refer to as the 'Gandhi of Africa' - Nelson Mandela, who received it in 1998. We are truly honored to have you with us today and appreciate your efforts to join us amidst your extremely busy schedule," stated Ramgoolam amidst thunderous applause.
During the National Day festivities, a contingent from the Indian Navy participated in the parade. An Indian Naval Ship also made a Port Call to coincide with the National Day celebrations.
Earlier on the same day, PM Modi extended his wishes to the people of Mauritius on their National Day.
"I look forward to today's programs, including participating in the festivities," he remarked while also sharing highlights from key meetings and events held on Tuesday.
The rare repeat invitation to PM Modi for the National Day celebrations emphasizes India's special rapport with Mauritius, grounded in a shared history, culture, and diaspora connections.
In 2023, PM Modi was the Guest of Honour at France's Bastille Day Parade, another significant moment that illustrated India's expanding military and strategic partnership with France. The image of Indian tri-services marching alongside French troops on the Champs-Élysées reaffirmed India's pivotal role in global geopolitics.
In 2022, PM Modi visited Lumbini, Nepal, for Buddha Jayanti celebrations, highlighting India's historical ties to Buddhism and shared heritage with Nepal. His visit emphasized India's commitment to fostering cultural and spiritual connections across the region.
In 2021, Bangladesh invited PM Modi to its National Day celebrations, commemorating 50 years of its independence—an event closely connected to India's role in its liberation. The visit reaffirmed India's dedication to regional stability and mutual prosperity.
In 2017, PM Modi's trip to Sri Lanka for International Vesak Day showcased India's leadership in civilizational and cultural diplomacy. By reaffirming India's role as a custodian of Buddhist heritage, he strengthened spiritual and diplomatic relations with Buddhist-majority countries.
