Prime Minister Modi’s State Visit to Strengthen India-Mauritius Relations
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day visit to Mauritius aims to strengthen bilateral ties through agreements on maritime security, financial crime prevention, and civil service training. The visit will coincide with the celebrations of Mauritius’ National Day and include significant discussions and MOUs aimed at enhancing cooperation between the two nations.
Ahead of his two-day State visit to Mauritius, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the significance of Mauritius as a close maritime neighbor and a key partner in the Indian Ocean. The visit is focused on strengthening bilateral relations through pacts on maritime security, combating financial crimes, and training Mauritian civil servants.
PM Modi expressed his intent to attend the 57th National Day celebrations of Mauritius at the invitation of Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam. This will mark his second visit to the nation, having previously attended the National Day celebrations in 2015. He reiterated the historical, cultural, and geographical ties that bind India and Mauritius.
To commemorate Modi’s presence, an Indian Naval Ship will dock at Port Louis, alongside contingents from the Indian Navy and Air Force showcasing their capabilities during the National Day celebrations. Additionally, both countries are poised to deepen their cooperation in areas such as development, maritime security, and financial connectivity.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri noted that Modi is the first world leader to congratulate Ramgoolam after his electoral victory in November 2024, making this visit an important early engagement for both leaders. Modi’s visit is expected to rejuvenate the bilateral ties and set the pace for future collaboration.
Upon his arrival in Port Louis, PM Modi will pay respects at the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden and visit President Dharambeer Gokhool, fostering discussions with various political figures. Collaborative projects initiated with Indian assistance are also slated for inauguration during this visit.
Expectations include signing several Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) focusing on capacity building, trade, and the combat of cross-border financial crimes. The anticipated pacts aim to enhance maritime security and facilitate cooperation between Indian and Mauritian authorities, especially in illegal activities and maritime domain awareness.
In terms of combatting financial crimes, a memorandum is proposed between India’s Enforcement Directorate and the Mauritian Financial Crimes Commission, aiming to bolster intelligence and technical assistance concerning anti-corruption and anti-money laundering efforts. Furthermore, a collaboration is being established to train 500 Mauritian civil servants over five years, primarily targeting leadership and technical roles in governance.
The upcoming visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Mauritius reflects the importance of bilateral relations, focusing on maritime security and combatting financial crimes. The trip will see the signing of several crucial pacts that will enhance mutual cooperation in capacity building, trade, and governance. This engagement marks a significant step forward in strengthening the partnership between India and Mauritius, fostering greater regional security and collaboration.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
