Prime Minister Modi To Visit Mauritius For National Day Celebrations And Strengthen Bilateral Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a two-day visit to Mauritius, where he will be the chief guest for the island nation’s 57th National Day celebrations. This visit will also serve as a platform for India and Mauritius to sign a series of agreements aimed at further strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.

The Indian diaspora in Mauritius is eagerly preparing to give Prime Minister Modi a grand welcome ahead of the National Day festivities. Their excitement reflects the deep cultural and historical ties shared by the two nations, with many people of Indian origin in Mauritius anticipating a significant moment during the visit.

A Glimpse Into Modi’s Past Visit To Mauritius

Ahead of the trip, nostalgic memories from PM Modi’s visit to Mauritius nearly three decades ago have surfaced. Modi Archive, a popular handle on X, shared pictures from his 1998 visit, where he engaged in various programs and held interactions with the local population. The post highlighted the enduring bond between India and Mauritius, often referred to as “Mini India,” due to the shared history, language, and culture.

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“As PM Modi revisits Mauritius, it feels like a homecoming to Mini India,” the X handle noted.

Special Connection Between India And Mauritius

Mauritius has a special connection with India, as a significant portion of its population traces its roots to the Indian subcontinent. During his 1998 visit, Modi, then serving as the BJP National General Secretary, addressed the International Ramayana Conference in Moka. He spoke about the universal values of Lord Ram and how the Ramayana serves as a bridge, uniting India and Mauritius in an eternal civilizational embrace.

Engaging With Key Leaders And The Local Population

During his first visit, Modi not only engaged with political leaders but also formed lasting bonds with the local people. He met with key figures, including President Cassam Uteem, Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, and Opposition Leader Sir Anerood Jugnauth. Additionally, he interacted with Paul Raymond Berenger, who later became the Prime Minister of Mauritius.

Modi took time to understand the island’s culture, history, and struggles, drawing parallels between Mauritius’ fight for independence and India’s own journey to freedom. He also visited Ganga Talao, a sacred site where Hindu traditions continue to thrive outside India.

Revisiting Ganga Talao: A Symbol Of Emotional Connection

Ganga Talao holds a deep emotional significance for the people of Mauritius. In 2015, Modi recalled how the pond was created by the residents of Mauritius, who brought water from the Ganga River to pour into it. “Though the quantity of water may be small, the emotions and devotion associated with it have given it a different dimension,” Modi said. “For the people, it is a representation of the Ganga.”

PM Modi’s connection to Ganga Talao was evident when he visited the site again during his 2015 trip. Standing at the sacred pond, he paid his respects to Maa Ganga, reaffirming the spiritual bond between India and Mauritius.

Addressing The People Of Mauritius

In his 2015 address on Mauritius’ National Day, PM Modi delivered a memorable speech, likening the country’s exceptional qualities to those of India. He said, “To know whether a mango crop is good, one does not need to check every single fruit. Just tasting one or two is enough to understand the quality of the entire harvest. Similarly, if the world looks at Mauritius, they can see a glimpse of what India is like.”

Modi’s words resonated with the people of Mauritius, reinforcing the strong cultural and historical ties that bind the two nations.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

As PM Modi prepares for his upcoming visit, the focus will be on strengthening India-Mauritius relations through strategic agreements, with both countries aiming to deepen their cooperation in various sectors. The visit underscores the importance of the enduring partnership between India and Mauritius, built on shared values, history, and a common vision for the future.