Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the National Day celebrations of Mauritius on Wednesday as the Chief Guest, marking his second appearance in this esteemed role. His first invitation to be the Chief Guest came in 2015, and this repeat honor reflects the deep and enduring relationship between India and Mauritius.
Following the event, PM Modi shared his excitement on X (formerly Twitter), expressing his joy at attending the celebrations: “Honoured to attend the National Day celebrations of Mauritius! Wishing the people of Mauritius continued prosperity and success as we also strengthen the deep-rooted ties between our countries.”
During the festivities, Mauritius President Dharambeer Gokhool bestowed upon PM Modi the prestigious “Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean” (GCSK) award, the highest civilian distinction in Mauritius. This marks the first time an Indian leader has received the esteemed award. In his acceptance speech, PM Modi dedicated the award to the special friendship between India and Mauritius, as well as to the 1.4 billion people of India and the 1.3 million Mauritian citizens of Indian descent.
The announcement of this significant honor was made by Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam just before PM Modi addressed an Indian community event in Port Louis on Tuesday evening. Prime Minister Ramgoolam highlighted the rarity of the award, noting that only five foreign dignitaries had previously received the GCSK award since Mauritius became a republic. Among them was the iconic Nelson Mandela, who was honored with the award in 1998. “It is very fitting for you, Prime Minister. You are now part of a select group of individuals who have received this award,” said Ramgoolam, receiving applause from the audience.
PM Modi’s receipt of the GCSK award is his 21st international recognition, a testament to his global diplomatic efforts and the strong international presence India has cultivated under his leadership. The event also saw participation from the Indian Navy, with a marching contingent joining the National Day parade, further symbolizing the military cooperation between the two countries. Additionally, an Indian naval ship made a port call in Mauritius to coincide with the celebrations.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi expressed his warm wishes for the people of Mauritius on their National Day. He also shared the highlights from the key meetings and events he participated in on Tuesday, which underscored the growing relationship between the two nations, rooted in shared history, culture, and the large Indian diaspora in Mauritius.
The invitation extended to PM Modi for a second National Day celebration underscores the exceptional bond between India and Mauritius. This relationship has been strengthened over the years by mutual respect and collaboration, particularly in areas such as defense, trade, and cultural exchange.
In recent years, PM Modi’s international engagements have highlighted India’s expanding role on the world stage. In 2023, he was the Guest of Honour at France’s Bastille Day Parade, marking a key moment in the military and strategic partnership between India and France. In 2022, PM Modi visited Lumbini, Nepal, for Buddha Jayanti celebrations, reinforcing India’s cultural and spiritual ties with its neighboring nations.
PM Modi’s visit to Mauritius is yet another reminder of India’s deepening diplomatic footprint, with Mauritius being a key partner in India’s Indo-Pacific strategy.
