Prime Minister Modi’s State Visit to Mauritius: Strengthening Ties and Cooperation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced a two-day state visit to Mauritius on March 11, 2025, receiving a ceremonial welcome. He will attend national day celebrations, engage in talks with top leaders, sign cooperation agreements, and interact with the Indian community. Modi’s visit emphasizes the longstanding ties and shared interests between India and Mauritius, particularly concerning the Chagos Islands.
On March 11, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Mauritius for a two-day state visit, a notable event marked by a ceremonial welcome. He is set to attend the national day celebrations as the chief guest and engage in discussions with key leaders of the nation.
During his arrival, Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam for the warm welcome at the airport. Modi remarked on the significance of this visit for fostering collaboration across various sectors. He was greeted with a traditional garland and was accompanied by numerous dignitaries, including the deputy PM, Chief Justice, and influential political figures, totaling around 200 guests.
The visit, initiated at the invitation of Prime Minister Ramgoolam, will include the signing of several agreements focused on enhancing cooperation in capacity building, trade, and addressing cross-border financial crimes. Prior to departing for this visit, PM Modi indicated that it heralds a “new and bright” chapter in Indo-Mauritian relations.
During his stay, PM Modi will meet with Mauritius’ president and engage senior political figures while also interacting with the Indian diaspora. He plans to inaugurate the civil service college and area health center, both funded by India’s grant assistance. Modi emphasized the desire to deepen the partnership between the two nations for mutual progress.
The Indian armed forces will take part in Mauritius’ national day celebrations, along with a warship and the Akash Ganga skydiving team. PM Modi highlighted Mauritius as a crucial maritime partner and cultural ally, reinforcing the historical connections that bind the nations. He acknowledged that the Indian-origin population constitutes nearly 70% of Mauritius’ population of 1.2 million.
In the context of regional geopolitics, India expressed support for Mauritius’ efforts to negotiate with the U.K. over the Chagos Islands, a significant topic likely to arise during discussions with Prime Minister Ramgoolam. An agreement was announced last year to transfer the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands back to Mauritius after several decades of British control.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Mauritius represents a significant opportunity to strengthen diplomatic ties between the two nations. His engagements, including the signing of cooperative agreements and interactions with the Indian community, aim to elevate bilateral relations. Additionally, discussions on the Chagos Islands highlight the ongoing collaborative efforts in regional matters. Overall, this visit underscores the enduring friendship and partnership between India and Mauritius.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
