Prime Minister Narendra Modi has departed from Mauritius after successfully concluding his visit to the island nation, marking a significant step in strengthening the longstanding ties between the two countries.
During his visit, PM Modi engaged in discussions with Mauritian leaders and interacted with the Indian community, reinforcing cultural and diplomatic connections.
One of the key highlights of his visit was a symbolic gesture at Ganga Talao (Grand Bassin), a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site in Mauritius. On Wednesday, PM Modi mixed holy water from the Prayagraj Mahakumbh with the sacred lake, signifying the deep-rooted spiritual and cultural ties between India and Mauritius. The Prayagraj Mahakumbh, which recently concluded, is one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, attracting millions of devotees.
As part of his visit, the Indian Prime Minister also offered prayers, performed Aarti, and paid obeisance at the revered Ganga Talao. The act was a reaffirmation of the shared heritage between the two nations.
In recognition of his contributions to strengthening bilateral relations, Prime Minister Modi was conferred with Mauritius’ highest national honor, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean.
The award was presented to PM Modi on Mauritius’ National Day, where thousands of people braved heavy rains to witness the momentous occasion.
“I express my heartfelt gratitude for being conferred the highest national award of Mauritius. This is not just my honor, but the honor of 1.4 billion Indians. It is a tribute to the centuries-old cultural and historical bonds between India and Mauritius,” PM Modi said while receiving the award.
Earlier, PM Modi held discussions with Mauritius’ Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, where both leaders agreed to elevate their nations’ partnership to an Enhanced Strategic Partnership. The discussions focused on collaboration in infrastructure, housing, digital technology, healthcare, artificial intelligence, and sustainable development.
“On the special occasion of Mauritius’ National Day, I had the opportunity to meet my good friend, PM Navinchandra Ramgoolam. We talked about how we can work together in areas such as infrastructure, housing, digital technology, health, and more,” PM Modi shared on social media.
A major milestone of PM Modi’s visit was the joint inauguration of the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Public Service and Innovation alongside PM Ramgoolam. Speaking at the event, PM Modi highlighted that the institute would serve as a hub for learning and research, fostering innovation and public service.
(Inputs from ANI)
