In a landmark recognition, Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam on Tuesday conferred the country’s highest civilian honor, ‘The Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean’, on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
This marks the first time an Indian leader has received the prestigious award.
With this, PM Modi now holds 21 international awards from various nations.
Mauritius PM Praises PM Modi’s Contributions
During the announcement, PM Ramgoolam described the honor as a fitting tribute to PM Modi’s contributions, stating, “The Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean’ is very fitting for you, Prime Minister.”
“Since we became a Republic only five foreign dignitaries have got that title and among them is the Gandhi of Africa, Nelson Mandela who received it in 1998,” the Mauritius PM further asserted.
The announcement was made at a gathering of the Indian community in Mauritius, where the national anthems of both India and Mauritius were played in the presence of PM Modi and PM Ramgoolam.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in Mauritius as the Chief Guest for the country’s National Day celebrations, reinforcing the deep diplomatic and cultural ties between the two nations, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.
As part of his visit, PM Modi presented OCI Cards to Mauritius President Dharambeer Gokhool and First Lady Brinda Gokhool.
Additionally, the Prime Minister gifted them sacred Sangam water from Maha Kumbh in a Brass and Copper pot, superfood Makhana, and a Banarasi Saree in a handcrafted Sadeli box for the First Lady.
The Prime Minister also toured the Ayurveda Garden at the State House, a project developed with Indian collaboration, accompanied by President Gokhool.
Later, at a special lunch hosted by President Gokhool, PM Modi expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality and reaffirmed India’s unwavering support for Mauritius, highlighting the enduring friendship between the two nations.
Also Read: PM Modi Visits Ayurveda Garden In Mauritius; Highlights Growing Popularity Of Traditional Medicine
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