New Delhi: India and Mauritius are set to deepen their strategic partnership with a focus on maritime security and economic cooperation during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day visit to the island nation. PM Modi will travel to Mauritius on March 11-12 at the invitation of Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, primarily to attend the island nation’s national day celebrations.
A contingent of Indian armed forces will participate in the celebrations, alongside a warship from the Indian Navy and the Akash Ganga skydiving team of the Indian Air Force.
Maritime Security & Financial Crime Cooperation
During the visit, India and Mauritius will sign a technical agreement on exchanging white shipping information to enhance maritime domain awareness and prevent illegal activities in the region. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said the pact will strengthen cooperation between the Indian Navy and Mauritian authorities.
India’s Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Financial Crime Commission of Mauritius will also sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to bolster intelligence-sharing and technical assistance in tackling financial crimes, including money laundering.
Expanding Bilateral Ties
PM Modi and Ramgoolam will engage in wide-ranging talks and oversee the signing of multiple agreements in capacity building, bilateral trade, and support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services and the Mauritius Prime Minister’s Office will ink an MoU to enhance collaboration in maritime zone management, ocean observation, and research.
As part of India’s development cooperation, Both Prime Ministers will jointly inaugurate a civil service college and a health centre built with Indian grants.
Strong Historical and Economic Ties
Describing Mauritius as a close maritime neighbour, Misri emphasized India’s long-standing partnership with the island nation. People of Indian origin make up nearly 70% of Mauritius’ 1.2 million population, strengthening cultural and diplomatic bonds.
India remains a key trading partner, with total bilateral trade reaching $554 million in 2022-23. Indian exports to Mauritius stood at $462 million, while Mauritian exports to India were valued at $91.5 million. Trade between the two nations has surged by 132% over the last 17 years.
PM Modi is also expected to meet senior Mauritian dignitaries, leaders of political parties, and members of the Indian-origin community during his visit.
If you want to fact-check any story, WhatsApp it now on +91 11 7127 9799
Error: Contact form not found.
