Mauritius Confers Highest National Award on PM Modi for Strengthening Bilateral Ties

Mauritius Confers Highest National Award on PM Modi: On Tuesday, Navinchandra Ramgoolam, Prime Minister of Mauritius, announced the conferral of the country's top civilian honour on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, The Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean (GCSK).

This award hence makes PM Modi the first Indian recipient of Mauritius' highest award. Besides, it is the 21st international award conferred on him from abroad, adding to his already-long list of such awards.

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During the announcement, Mauritius PM Navinchandra Ramgoolam said, “‘The Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean’ is very fitting for you, Prime Minister.” Since Mauritius became a Republic, only five foreign dignitaries have received this award. Of these, Nelson Mandela received it in 1998.

This announcement was made at an event for the Indian community, during which the national anthems of India and Mauritius were played in the presence of PM Modi and PM Ramgoolam.

Expressing gratitude, PM Modi said, "I humbly accept this decision with great respect. It is an honour for the historic bond between India and Mauritius." He thanked the people and government of Mauritius for this special recognition.

Now in Mauritius for a two-day trip, PM Modi was the chief guest at the National Day celebrations, which signify the closeness in diplomatic and cultural ties shared between the two nations.

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During the visit, PM Modi presented Mauritius President Dharambeer Gokhool and the First Lady with OCI Cards, water from holy Sangam for Mahakumbh in a brass and copper pot, healthy Makhana, as well as Sadeli box with a Banarasi saree.

Moreover, PM Modi paid a visit to the Ayurveda garden at the State House in Mauritius. Developed in collaboration with the Government of India, he toured the garden, along with President Gokhool, which signifies India's resolve towards holistic health and traditional medicine.

A special lunch was hosted in his honour by the Mauritian President, whereupon PM Modi thanked for the warmth of hospitality and reiterated India’s commitment to strengthening the historic and strategic partnership the two nations share.

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