Prime Minister Modi presented OCI cards to Mauritius PM Ramgoolam and his wife, emphasizing the historical bond between India and Mauritius. He highlighted the extension of OCI to the seventh generation and referred to Mauritius as part of India’s family and a bridge to the Global South. Modi is set to attend the national day celebrations as the chief guest.
On March 11, 2025, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards to Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam and his wife, Veena, marking a significant diplomatic gesture. Modi highlighted that this extension of the OCI card reaches the seventh generation of the Indian diaspora residing in Mauritius.
During the ceremony, Modi received the highest civilian honor of Mauritius, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean. He voiced gratitude towards the Mauritian people and government, stating, “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.”
Modi characterized Mauritius as a crucial link between India and the Global South, affirming that the nation is part of India’s family rather than merely a partnership. During a community event in Port Louis, he referred to Mauritius as “Mini India,” emphasizing its integral cultural ties and historical connections to India.
Emphasizing the depth of the bond, Modi declared, “For us, Mauritius is family! This bond is deep and strongly rooted in history, heritage and the human spirit.” He also reiterated India’s SAGAR vision (Security and Growth for All in the Region), underscoring Mauritius’s central role in this initiative since its announcement in 2015.
As the chief guest, Modi is set to attend Mauritius’s national day celebrations on March 12, further solidifying the relationship between the two nations.
In summary, PM Modi’s presentation of OCI cards reinforces India’s historical ties with Mauritius. The mutual recognition of cultural connections and Modi’s commitment to maintaining the strategic significance of Mauritius as a part of India’s family demonstrates the depth of this bilateral relationship. Furthermore, his participation in national celebrations underscores ongoing collaboration between the countries.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
