‘Deeply touched’: PM Modi receives traditional Bihari welcome by Indian diaspora at Mauritius port

“Deeply touched by the warm welcome from the Indian community in Mauritius. Their strong connection to Indian heritage, culture and values is truly inspiring. This bond of history and heart continues to thrive across generations,” Modi posted on X.

Poonawalla also highlighted that the tradition was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December 2016.

‘Grateful to my friend’

Upon his arrival, Modi was welcomed by Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam with a garland, alongside a large delegation including 34 ministers and over 200 dignitaries, at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport.

Over a post on X, Modi wrote: “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.”

Ramgoolam was joined by the Deputy Prime Minister, Chief Justice of Mauritius, Speaker of the National Assembly, Leader of the Opposition, Foreign Minister, Cabinet Secretary, Chairperson of Grand Port District Council, among others, PTI report stated.

The Indian prime minister will meet his counterpart, along with President Dharam Gokhool, and address a community programme this evening.

As PM Modi reached the hotel in Mauritius, he was accorded a warm welcome by people from the Indian community. The members at the hotel welcomed him with ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai’, as they waved the Indian tricolour flag, news agency PTI reported.

PM Modi to inaugurate over 20 India-funded projects

Modi’s two-day visit to the Southeast African island nation entails plans to inaugurate over 20 India-funded projects, ranging from capacity building to community-linked infrastructure, including the Civil Services College building.

Modi will call on the President of Mauritius, meet the Prime Minister, and hold meetings with senior dignitaries and leaders of political parties in the island nation.

Ahead of his trip to Mauritius, Prime Minister Modi on Monday said the visit will open a “new and bright” chapter in the ties between the two nations.

Mauritian Foreign Minister Dhananjay Ramful, speaking to PTI Videos, said a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on a line of credit will be signed on March 12.

The strong ties between the two nations are evident in the numerous India-supported development initiatives across the island.

– with inputs from PTI