Mauritius Awards Country’s Highest Honour To PM Narendra Modi; Indian Prime Minister Gifts Holy Kumbh Water

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been honored with Mauritius's highest award, The Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean, making him the first Indian to receive such a distinction. This recognition marks the 21st international accolade awarded to PM Modi by another country, underscoring his influential presence on the global stage. During his visit to Mauritius, PM Modi engaged in significant diplomatic activities, including a notable meeting with the President of Mauritius, Dharambeer Gokhool, at the State House.

In a ceremonial gesture that highlights the deep ties between India and Mauritius, Prime Minister Modi presented OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India) cards to President Gokhool and the First Lady, Brinda Gokhool. This act not only symbolizes the strong bilateral relations between the two nations but also acknowledges the shared heritage and robust people-to-people connections linking them. The leaders took this opportunity to discuss ways to further enhance the special and close ties that have been cultivated over years, reflecting on the historical connections and mutual respect that underpin the India-Mauritius relationship.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released a statement detailing the discussions between PM Modi and President Gokhool, which focused on deepening the unique and intimate bilateral relations. Both leaders reminisced about the shared history and strong people-to-people linkages that characterize the India-Mauritius bond.

PM Modi expressed his honor at being the Chief Guest at Mauritius's National Day celebrations for the second time, signifying the importance India places on its relationship with Mauritius. The presentation of OCI cards to the President and the First Lady by PM Modi was highlighted by the MEA as a special gesture, indicating the continued commitment to strengthening ties between the two nations.

To address the event, Prime Minister Modi used a blend of Hindi and Bhojpuri language and said, "I visited Mauritius 10 years ago, on the same day. It was a week after Holi... This time, I will take the colours of Holi with me to India."

"We are like one family," said PM Modi in his address to the Indian community. "With this emotion. Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam and others are present here. I welcome you all," he added.

"The people and the government of Mauritius have decided to confer upon me their highest civilian honour. 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," he said.

"The people and the government of Mauritius have decided to confer upon me their highest civilian honour. 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," he said.

PM added that many people from Mauritius also visited Prayagraj during the Maha Kumbh, and he has brought holy Ganga water for those who couldn't travel to India during Kumbh.