Prime Minister Narendra Modi has become the first Indian to receive a highest civilian award of Mauritius, Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean.
Mauritius Prime Minister Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam made the announcement during an Indian diaspora event in Port Louis this evening. The honour also adds to Mr Modi’s growing list of international accolades, making it the 21st such recognition.
Addressing the Indian community, Prime Minister Modi thanked the people and the government of Mauritius for giving him the country’s highest civilian honour. He said, this is not just an honour for him, but an honour for the historic bond between India and Mauritius. Mr Modi said, the deep-rooted cultural connection between the two countries is evident in the warmth of the diaspora.
In a special gesture, Prime Minister Modi also announced the issuance of Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards to his Mauritian counterpart Navin Ramgoolam and his spouse Veena Ramgoolam.
Mauritius Prime Minister thanked Prime Minister Modi and the Government of India for granting OCI cards to the seventh generation of Indian descent.
The community event was attended by more than 3,500 people, including members of the Mauritius Cabinet, government officials, and National Assembly members.
Later tonight, Prime Minister Modi will hold a bilateral meeting with his Mauritian counterpart Navinchandra Ramgoolam.
