Modi first received the honour in Mauritius in 2015, the recent visit underscores India`s special relationship with the island country rooted in shared history, culture, and diaspora ties

He also received Mauritius` highest honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean, calling it a tribute to the centuries-old cultural and historical bonds of kinship between the two nations

Modi, who is on a two-day state visit in Mauritius was conferred with the award by President Dharam Gokhool at the island nation`s 57th National Day celebrations

Prime Minister Modi is the first Indian leader to receive this prestigious award, which recognises his contributions to strengthening ties between India and Mauritius

"I express my heartfelt gratitude for being conferred the Highest National Award of Mauritius. This is not just my honour. It is the honour of 1.4 billion Indians. It is a tribute to the centuries-old cultural and historical bonds of kinship between India and Mauritius," Modi said

He said that through their hard work, these people wrote a golden chapter in the development of Mauritius and contributed to its vibrant diversity

"I accept this award with full humility and gratitude. I dedicate it to your ancestors who came from India to Mauritius centuries ago, and to all their generations," he added

During the National Day celebrations, an Indian Navy marching contingent participated in the parade. An Indian Naval Ship also made a port call to coincide with the National Day celebrations

"Honoured to attend the National Day celebrations of Mauritius! Wishing the people of Mauritius continued prosperity and success as we also strengthen the deep-rooted ties between our countries," Modi posted on X

Prime Minister Modi along with Ramgoolam also jointly inaugurated the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Public Service and Innovation in Mauritius