India and Mauritius Forge Stronger Bilateral Ties Through Key Agreements
India and Mauritius have signed eight MoUs to strengthen their bilateral relations, enhancing cooperation in trade, maritime security, and development. The agreements include the promotion of national currencies for cross-border transactions and collaboration in the MSME sector. PM Modi’s visit highlighted a strategic partnership focused on regional security, underlined by historical and cultural ties.
India and Mauritius have taken significant steps to enhance their bilateral relations, culminating in the signing of eight memorandums of understanding (MoUs) aimed at strengthening cooperation across various sectors, including trade and maritime security. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit, the two nations elevated their ties to an “enhanced strategic partnership” amidst discussions surrounding the development of the Global South.
The signed agreements focus on several key areas, such as promoting the usage of national currencies for cross-border transactions, sharing maritime data, and joint efforts against money laundering. Additionally, there is a strong emphasis on enhancing cooperation within the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector.
During his visit to Port Louis, Prime Minister Modi participated as the chief guest in Mauritius’ national day celebrations, which included a display of Indian armed forces and a warship from the Indian Navy. Modi’s discussions with Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam led to the announcement of a new strategic vision termed “MAHASAGAR”, an initiative designed to counter China’s influence in the Indian Ocean by fostering a secure and interconnected regional environment.
Modi outlined India and Mauritius’ mutual commitment to securing the Indian Ocean, emphasizing defense cooperation as a vital component of their partnership. He reassured Mauritian officials of India’s support in securing their Exclusive Economic Zone and enhancing police and maritime capabilities.
The Prime Minister highlighted India’s historical advocacy for Mauritius regarding the Chagos Islands, affirming support for a mutually beneficial resolution with the UK, which had previously announced the intention to transfer sovereignty back to Mauritius. Furthermore, Modi expressed the desire to revitalize discussions about this important territorial issue under the new Mauritian government.
Modi characterized the relationship between India and Mauritius as one of shared economic and social goals, highlighting their mutual support in times of crisis and commitment to progress across various sectors, including development, education, and health. He announced several ongoing development projects in Mauritius, such as modernizing the water pipeline, improving social housing, and assisting in health projects, including the establishment of an ENT hospital.
India will also support the construction of a new Parliament building in Mauritius as part of its contributions to the island nation. Moreover, Modi conveyed an eagerness to utilize artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure in boosted human development efforts, enhancing the existing people-to-people ties forged through shared historical roots, as Indian-origin people make up a significant part of Mauritius’ demographic.
The two nations reaffirmed their commitment to promoting trade through local currency transactions and outlined the progress made in enhancing their bilateral relationship over the last decade. India continues to play a vital role as a principal trading partner for Mauritius, further encouraging bilateral trade and cooperation, as evidenced by ongoing and planned projects.
In summary, the recent agreements between India and Mauritius underlines a commitment to deepening their strategic partnership significantly. The bilateral focus on enhancing cooperation in areas such as trade, maritime security, and development marks a decisive shift in collaboration aimed at regional stability amidst growing geopolitical challenges. This relationship is particularly underscored by the shared historical and cultural ties between the two nations, with ongoing projects poised to foster mutual growth and prosperity.
Original Source: www.news18.com
