Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Mauritius on Tuesday to an enthusiastic and ceremonial welcome by Mauritius Prime Minister Navin Chandra Ramgoolam at the airport. The warm reception marked the beginning of PM Modi’s two-day state visit, during which he will attend the National Day celebrations as the Chief Guest on March 12.
Expressing his gratitude and optimism for the visit, PM Modi shared his thoughts in a post on X, stating, “Landed in Mauritius. I am grateful to my friend, PM Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam, for the special gesture of welcoming me at the airport. This visit is a wonderful opportunity to engage with a valued friend and explore new avenues for collaboration in various sectors. Today, I will be meeting President Dharam Gokhool, PM Navinchandra Ramgoolam and addressing a community programme in the evening.”
Members of the Indian diaspora gathered at the hotel in large numbers to welcome the Indian Prime Minister, showcasing their excitement and pride. One member of the diaspora, who had created a sketch of PM Modi, said, “I am really fortunate that I could draw a sketch of PM Modi. It took me 4 hours to finish this. If PM Modi gives an autograph on the sketch, it will be a very proud moment for me.”
The excitement extended across all age groups. Sangvi, a young member of the diaspora, expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “I really want to meet PM Modi. I am very excited to see him.” Another attendee, Anya, added, “I am very excited. This is the first time I am going to meet PM Modi. I am really proud to be an Indian.”
As part of the celebrations, cultural performances were prepared to honor PM Modi’s arrival. Dancers spent days perfecting their routines for the occasion. Swayamprabha, one of the performers, shared, “It took us around 10 days to prepare. The performance is a mixture of Kathak, Bharatnatyam, and Kuchipudi. These dance styles are taught in schools too, in Mauritius. We are very excited and proud to perform in front of PM Modi.”
PM Modi was welcomed by a distinguished assembly of 200 dignitaries at 6 a.m. local time. The gathering included Members of Parliament, Members of the Legislative Assembly, members of the Diplomatic Corps, and religious leaders, underscoring the significance of the visit and the strong ties between India and Mauritius.
