Mauritius will observe a national day of mourning on Sunday in honor of former South African president Nelson Mandela, according to the government.

The Indian Ocean island country's Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam made the announcement Friday at a special parliamentary session in honor of the first black president of South Africa.

All flags overlooking public institutions in Mauritius will fly at half-mast from 6 a.m. local time to 6 p.m. on Sunday to pay tribute to the hero of the struggle against apartheid.

Ramgoolam also asked Mauritians to observe a minute of silence when Mandela's funeral is held Sunday in his native village.

At the session, opposition leader Paul Berenger praised Mandela as "a giant welcomed by all."

President of the National Assembly (parliament) Razack Peeroo said, "Nelson Mandela has dedicated his life to the struggle for peace, justice, tolerance and democracy. We all need to continue their work. "

Mandela maintained a special relationship with Maurice after his first visit as South African president in 1998.