Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam hosted a state dinner on Tuesday in honor of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and expressed his immense pride and gratitude for Modi’s presence at the event.
Welcoming PM Modi to Mauritius’ National Day celebrations, Ramgoolam recalled the strong bond between the two nations and his own invitation to Modi’s first swearing-in ceremony as India’s Prime Minister in 2014.
“I am immensely proud and honoured, Prime Minister, that you have accepted my invitation to grace our National Day celebrations with your presence despite your very heavy schedule. It is a testimony of your deep feelings for Mauritius,” he said.
He further added, “On a personal note, I recall with great pride and a sense of profound gratitude the unique privilege you so kindly honoured me with by inviting me to your first swearing-in ceremony as Prime Minister of India in 2014. I am hopeful that you will invite me for the fourth swearing-in as well.”
Earlier, PM Modi addressed the Indian community in Mauritius at a special event held at the Trianon Convention Centre, recalling his personal connection with the country. He shared memories of his 1998 visit to attend the International Ramayan Conference.
“I came here in 1998 to attend the International Ramayan Conference… I can still experience that faith today, which I experienced years ago,” he said.
Modi also highlighted the deep cultural and spiritual ties between India and Mauritius, citing the Mauritian government’s decision to declare a half-day holiday during the Pran Pratishtha of Lord Ram Lalla in Ayodhya last year.
“The same emotions were witnessed last year when Lord Ram Lalla’s Pran Pratishtha was organised in Ayodhya. The Mauritius government also announced a half-day holiday… This connection of faith is the base of the friendship between India and Mauritius,” he noted.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from the Indian diaspora, including students, professionals, socio-cultural organizations, and business leaders. Several Mauritian Ministers, Members of Parliament, and other dignitaries were also in attendance.
PM Modi is currently on an official visit to Mauritius from March 11-12.