PM Modi Engages with Pravind Jugnauth to Enhance Bilateral Relations

Synopsis
On March 12, PM Narendra Modi engaged with former Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors. The visit included attending National Day celebrations and receiving a prestigious award from Mauritius.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi and Pravind Jugnauth discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation.
- Both leaders share a positive relationship.
- PM Modi is on a two-day visit to Mauritius.
- Received the highest honor from Mauritius.
- Emphasized India's commitment as a development partner.
Port Louis, March 12 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in discussions with former Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth on Wednesday, focusing on strategies to further enhance cooperation between India and Mauritius across multiple sectors.
The rapport between the two leaders is notably positive. Pravind Jugnauth also participated in the swearing-in ceremony for Modi government's third term in June 2024.
The Prime Minister is scheduled to meet with the Leader of Opposition in Mauritius, Georges Lesjongard.
During his two-day visit to Mauritius from March 11-12, PM Modi will attend the National Day celebrations of this East African nation later today.
Earlier today, he extended his warm wishes to the people of Mauritius via X, expressing, "National Day greetings to the citizens of Mauritius. Eagerly anticipating today’s events, including participating in the celebrations.”
On Tuesday, PM Modi engaged in "productive discussions" with his Mauritian counterpart, Navinchandra Ramgoolam, in Port Louis. The talks centered on reviewing bilateral relations, assessing ongoing collaborations, and identifying new opportunities to strengthen the special bond between both nations.
In a significant and symbolic act reflecting the profound ties between India and Mauritius, both leaders shared a ride to a banquet hosted by PM Ramgoolam in honor of the visiting Indian leader. This gesture reaffirmed the strength of their partnership, which has notably deepened over the last decade under PM Modi's leadership.
The government of Mauritius 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 Narendra Modi during his current two-day state visit to the Indian Ocean archipelago.
Prime Minister Ramgoolam made the announcement just before PM Modi addressed the Indian community in Mauritius on Tuesday evening. Modi becomes the first Indian recipient of this honor.
This marks the 21st international award bestowed upon PM Modi by a foreign nation.
PM Ramgoolam personally welcomed PM Modi at the airport early on Tuesday morning, further underscoring the warmth of their relationship.
During their meeting, PM Modi reiterated India's commitment to being a reliable development partner for Mauritius, emphasizing that both nations would continue to collaborate to advance the interests of the Global South.
On Tuesday evening, PM Modi addressed a community event in Port Louis, celebrating the profound cultural and emotional ties between the peoples of India and Mauritius.
"Mauritius is more than just a partner nation. For us, Mauritius is family," he remarked while speaking to the gathering at the Trianon Convention Centre.
Recognizing the strong connections between the two countries, PM Modi added, "The presence of my friend, Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam and Mrs. Veena Ramgoolam made today’s community event in Mauritius even more special. I also distributed OCI cards to them, illustrating the significance of the India-Mauritius friendship."