New Delhi: On Wednesday, Mauritius awarded its highest civilian distinction, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean, to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He remarked that this honor signifies a mutual dedication to regional advancement and security.
The accolade was bestowed upon Modi by Mauritian President Dharambeer Gokhool during the National Day festivities in Port Louis, recognizing the Prime Minister’s initiatives to enhance the bilateral relationship between India and Mauritius.
In his acceptance address, Modi stated, “This award pays homage to the long-standing cultural and historical ties that bind India and Mauritius.” He further emphasized that it represents a collective commitment to regional peace, progress, security, and sustainable development, symbolizing the shared aspirations of the Global South.
Modi dedicated the honor to the ancestors who migrated from India to Mauritius centuries ago, noting, “Their dedication has penned a remarkable chapter in the evolution of Mauritius and enriched its diverse culture.”
Approximately 70% of Mauritius’s 1.2 million inhabitants can trace their ancestry to indentured laborers brought from India in the 18th century. The culinary traditions and languages of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh are integral to the lives of the Indian-origin community.
“I also view this honor as a responsibility,” Modi remarked. “I reaffirm our commitment to further elevate the India-Mauritius strategic partnership to new heights.”
Modi has been the recipient of state honors from over 15 nations, including Saudi Arabia’s Order of King Abdul Aziz, the Order of the State of Palestine, the United Arab Emirates’ Order of Zayed, the Order of Fiji, and Egypt’s Order of the Nile.
This marks the second occasion on which Modi has served as the chief guest at Mauritius’s National Day celebrations.
