Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday described Mauritius as a “bridge between India and the Global South” and reaffirmed that the island nation is an integral part of India’s extended family. Addressing the Indian diaspora at a community event in Port Louis, Modi emphasised the deep-rooted historical, cultural, and emotional ties between the two nations.
“Mauritius is not just a partner country. For us, Mauritius is family!” Modi said at the event, which was also attended by Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, his wife Veena Ramgoolam, and members of his cabinet. “This bond is deep and strongly rooted in history, heritage, and the human spirit,” he added.
When Mauritius prospers, India is the first to celebrate, PM Modi said.
Modi highlighted Mauritius’ central role in India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision, which he first announced in 2015. “A decade ago, in 2015, on my first visit as the PM, I announced India’s SAGAR vision. Today, Mauritius is still at the heart of this vision,” he said.
During the event, Modi handed over the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards to Prime Minister Ramgoolam and his wife, announcing an extension of OCI eligibility to the seventh generation of the Indian diaspora in Mauritius.
PM Modi also expressed gratitude for being honoured with Mauritius’ highest civilian award, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean. “I humbly accept this decision with great respect. This is not just an honour for me, it is an honour for the historic bond between India and Mauritius,” Modi remarked.
Reflecting on the economic partnership between the two nations, Modi noted, “Mauritius is the first country from the African Union with whom India signed the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in 2021. Indian companies have invested millions of dollars in Mauritius. India works with Mauritius to protect the Indian Ocean region.”
PM Modi Brings Holy Water From Sangam, Holi Colours To Mauritius
The Prime Minister also spoke of the Maha Kumbh Mela, highlighting the deep cultural ties between India and Mauritius. “Many families from Mauritius attended the Maha Kumbh recently. The world is surprised to see the world’s largest gathering attended by 65-66 crore people. Many families from Mauritius could not attend. I was concerned about their sentiments. Hence, I brought the holy water from the Sangam from the time of Maha Kumbh. This holy water will be merged into the Ganga Talab tomorrow. I pray that Mauritius reaches new heights of prosperity by the grace of Maa Ganga,” he said.
Recalling his visit to Mauritius a decade ago, Modi said, “Ten years ago, on the same date, I visited Mauritius. Back then, Holi had passed a week ago, and I had brought the joy of Phagwa with me from India. This time, I will take along colours of Holi from Mauritius.”
He also spoke about the historical significance of March 12 as Mauritius’ National Day, linking it to India’s freedom struggle. “Last year, on the occasion of Mauritius’ National Day, the Indian President was the chief guest. This reflects the strength of India-Mauritius relations. Choosing March 12 as the National Day is a reflection of the shared history of both countries. This is the same day when Mahatma Gandhi started the Dandi Satyagraha against slavery.”
Prime Minister Modi will attend Mauritius’ National Day celebrations on Wednesday as the chief guest.
