President Droupadi Murmu, commenced her inaugural State Visit to Mauritius on March 11, 2024, marking a significant milestone in the enduring friendship between the two nations. Upon her arrival at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, President Murmu was accorded a warm reception by Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, along with members of his Cabinet and senior Mauritian dignitaries, who greeted her with full state honours.
In her first official engagement, President Murmu held discussions with the President of Mauritius, Prithvirajsing Roopun, at State House, Le Reduit. The leaders deliberated on avenues to further strengthen the multifaceted relationship between India and Mauritius, emphasizing mutual cooperation and collaboration across various sectors.
During her visit to the Ayurvedic Garden at the State House, President Murmu explored the cultural and medicinal heritage shared between India and Mauritius, underscoring the importance of traditional practices in fostering bilateral ties.
Later, President Murmu paid homage at the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden in Pamplemousses, where she laid a wreath at the Samadhi of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam and Sir Anerood Jugnauth, commemorating their contributions to the nation.
In the evening, Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth hosted a banquet in honor of President Murmu, where she delivered remarks praising Mauritius’ remarkable achievements in its 56 years of independence. President Murmu lauded Mauritius as a beacon of democracy, pluralism, prosperity, and peace, highlighting its stature as a leading international financial center and tourist destination.
Expressing pride in the success of the Indian diaspora in Mauritius, President Murmu announced a special provision granting Overseas Citizenship of India to Mauritians of 7th generation Indian origin, facilitating a deeper connection with their ancestral homeland.
President Murmu reiterated India’s commitment to fostering close partnerships with countries like Mauritius as it advances towards becoming a developed nation. Emphasizing India’s role as a global proponent of peace and prosperity, she underscored the principles of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family) and “Sarvajana Sukhina Bhavantu” (may all beings be happy), which guide India’s foreign policy.
