Prime Minister Narendra Modi invoked the historical ties between Mauritius and today, suggesting it was not just a partner country, but family. In Mauritius for a two-day visit as the Chief Guest of the country's National Day - chosen to commemorate the beginning of Mahatma Gandhi's Dandi March -- PM Modi invoked the deep connection between the two nations, forged during the dark days of British rule.
"Mauritius is not just a partner country. For us, Mauritius is family," PM Modi said at a programme hosted by expat Indians.
"This bond is deep and strong, rooted in history, heritage and human spirit... When Mauritius faces a crisis, India is the first to respond. When Mauritius prospers, India is the first to celebrate," he added.
With a many in Mauritius descendants of indentured Indian labourers sent during the colonial period, the India-Mauritius relationship runs deep.
It was one of the first countries that India developed diplomatic ties with after Independence. Today PM Modi reinforced it with his address, laced liberally with Hindi and Bhojpuri.
He reminded them of Holi, the coming festival of colours, recited couplets in Maithili, and revealed that for those who failed to attend it, he has carried waters from the Maha Kumbh.
He spoke of the advances made by Bihar, a state many in Mauritius trace their roots to.
Switching to in Bhojpuri, he added, "I know your deep emotional relation with Bihar.. As a MP from Purvanchal, I know the capacity of Mother Bihar. There was a time when Bihar was the Centre of the world's prosperity. Now, together, we will work to bring back its glory".
In this context he outlined the government's efforts -- from the revival of the Nalanda university to the export of Makhana or foxnuts, which, he said, "will soon become a part of snack menus worldwide".
But this relation between India and Mauritius, he said, does not only look back, but gaze forward as well.
Calling Mauritius the "Gateway to global south", he said during his first visit to the country a decade ago, he had announced the "SAGAR vision".
"SAGAR means Security and Growth for all in the Region. Today, Mauritius is still at the centre of this vision. whether it is investment or infrastructure, commerce or crisis response".
PM Modi has been conferred with the highest civilian honour of Mauritius -- The Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean. Thanking the people and the government of the island nation for the gesture, he said, "I humbly accept this decision with great respect. This is not just an honour for me, it is an honour for the historic bond between India and Mauritius".
