PM Modi Meets Mauritian President Gokhool in Mauritius to Enhance Bilateral Relations

Port Louis, Mauritius– Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today had an important meeting with His Excellency Mr. Dharambeer Gokhool, the President of the Republic of Mauritius, at the State House. The meeting was a turning point in India-Mauritius relations as both leaders explored the ways to take their special and historic relations deeper.

The two leaders’ bilateral talks focused on deepening the relationship between India and Mauritius, with a strong focus on the shared history of the two nations and the strong cultural and social ties between their peoples. Prime Minister Modi appreciated the long-standing friendship and close collaboration between the two countries, stressing the need to further deepen these ties to the advantage of both nations.

Prime Minister Modi underlined the privilege of being invited as the Chief Guest for the National Day celebrations in Mauritius, a position he had before received in 2015. This is his second trip to Mauritius for National Day celebrations, strengthening the enduring relationship between the two countries. The Prime Minister’s attendance at the celebrations was interpreted as a reflection of India’s firm determination to further its relationship with Mauritius, particularly in economic cooperation, security, and people-to-people exchanges.

A key moment during the meeting was Prime Minister Modi’s special gesture of handing over Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards to President Gokhool and First Lady Vrinda Gokhool. The distribution of OCI cards, a status that facilitates ease of travel and residence for people of Indian origin living abroad, symbolized the deepening connection between the two nations and the significant role the Indian diaspora plays in both Mauritius and India.

After the negotiations, Prime Minister Modi toured the Ayurveda Garden in the State House that was developed through the joint efforts of India and Mauritius. The garden, which is Ayurveda-friendly traditional Indian medicine, reflects the escalating alliance in the health field. Prime Minister Modi commended the initiative to incorporate Ayurveda in the healthcare system of Mauritius, stating that the garden reflects the significance of traditional medicine in improving well-being. He also reaffirmed that Mauritius has a special place for India in propagating the virtues of Ayurveda around the world.

The Prime Minister appreciated the Government of Mauritius’ intention to maintain the strong cultural heritage of Ayurveda and reiterated India’s willingness to cooperate further for the wider usage of traditional medicine practices around the globe. Both leaders exchanged views on the prospects of enhanced collaborations in education, trade, tourism, and technology, which would further strengthen their bilateral relationship.

As a mark of hospitality, President Gokhool invited Prime Minister Modi to a State lunch following their talks. The lunch provided the chance for more informal interactions between the leaders, further cementing the warm and friendly relations that have existed between India and Mauritius for long.

This Prime Minister Modi visit highlights the longstanding bilateral friendship between the two nations and reaffirms a commitment to expanding cooperation in vital fields that are vital to both countries’ future prosperity. Sharing a history, a diaspora community, and enhancing economic and cultural relations, India and Mauritius are better equipped to continue their cooperative journey towards a brighter and more prosperous future.