The President of the Republic of Mauritius, Mr Dharambeer Gokhool, laid wreaths at the Aapravasi Ghat World Heritage Site and Le Morne World Heritage Site, yesterday, to pay tribute to ancestors who have contributed to the development of the country.

In a press statement at Le Morne World Heritage Site, President Gokhool highlighted that Le Morne mountain and the Aapravasi Ghat represent all the sufferings endured and sacrifices made by our ancestors in order for the country to progress and develop.

Prior to visiting the two World Heritage Sites, the President accompanied by the Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, Mrs Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie; Minister of Arts and Culture, Mr Mahendra Gondeea; and the Junior Minister for Arts and Culture, Mrs Veronique Leu-Govind, paid tribute and laid wreaths at the statues of Late Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam and Late Sir Anerood Jugnauth at the Port Louis Waterfront.

President Gokhool recalled that Late Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam and Late Sir Anerood Jugnauth have greatly contributed in shaping a modern Mauritius. He also pointed out that he paid homage to Late Anjalay Coopen, who represented the working class of the country.

On another note, the President observed that his Office, Government and the civil society will need to work together so as to overcome the current challenges being faced by the country. He further appealed to each and everyone to promote interculturality and called for the Ministry of Arts and Culture to encourage the youth to show more interest in the country’s heritage.