Port Louis, April 10 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar highlighted the inauguration of Mauritius' inaugural dedicated renal transplant unit as a significant milestone, confirming that the healthcare collaboration between India and Mauritius is poised for further growth.

During his speech at the inauguration of the Renal Transplant Unit at Jawaharlal Nehru Hospital on Friday, EAM Jaishankar reflected on the shared heritage of India and Mauritius, which continues to influence their bilateral relations. He also extended Prime Minister Narendra Modi's heartfelt greetings to the Mauritian populace.

"Every visit feels like returning to a second home. There’s a warmth here that is palpable; you never feel like an outsider. The smiles of the people, the vibrant culture, and the essence of Mauritius all convey that. Many of you have Indian roots, but what truly inspires us is how these roots have evolved into a distinct Mauritian identity. You have not only preserved your heritage but have also made it uniquely your own, and that is the authentic story of Mauritius. This shared history enriches our relationship, adding depth with each visit and interaction," stated Jaishankar.

"That’s why Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji emphasizes that Mauritius is not just a partner; it is family. Before I embarked on this visit, he entrusted me with his warm regards for each of you, emphasizing that our relationship transcends diplomacy—it is a connection of the heart. This bond is evident in our actions, and today marks another pivotal moment for us. The launch of the first dedicated renal transplant unit in Mauritius is indeed a landmark achievement. It signifies more than just a medical advancement; it embodies hope for kidney disease patients. This facility will change lives, enabling treatment closer to home, reducing anxiety, alleviating financial stress, and providing greater comfort for families. Most importantly, it offers a second chance at life for many," he continued.

He emphasized that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare and described the renal transplant unit's inauguration as a vital step in that direction. EAM Jaishankar referred to the Jawahar Lal Nehru Hospital as a living testament to the enduring partnership between the two nations.

"Healthcare represents dignity. It ensures that every individual, irrespective of their circumstances, has access to quality medical services. Today's inauguration is a significant stride in that direction. If something is important to Mauritius, it holds equal importance to India. That is the essence of our friendship, particularly in healthcare, where the impacts are deeply personal and immediate. This partnership is not new; the Jawahar Lal Nehru Hospital has been a cornerstone of public healthcare in Mauritius for decades, serving countless families with dedication and compassion, symbolizing our long-standing cooperation," he remarked.

He reminisced how India provided support to Mauritius during the COVID-19 pandemic by supplying vaccines while addressing the needs of its own 1.4 billion citizens.

"Many of you will recall the ENT hospital during the COVID crisis. I remember that time vividly. It was an incredibly challenging period for the world. Vaccines were scarce, supply chains were disrupted, and every nation was fighting its own battles. Yet, even as we managed the needs of our 1.4 billion population, we chose to share our resources with our family," EAM Jaishankar stated.

"Mauritius was among the first nations to receive vaccines from India, reflecting what families do for each other. In that spirit, we launched the Medi Clinic at Grand Bois, the Jan Aushadhi Kendra, and the area health center at New Grove to enhance the affordability and accessibility of quality healthcare. During Prime Minister Modi's visit, we added another link to this chain with the healthcare center at Cap Malheureux, reaching communities in critical need. Looking forward, our healthcare collaboration is set to broaden even further," he concluded.

EAM Jaishankar underscored that healthcare holds a unique significance in the recently announced special economic package during the visit of Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam to India, mentioning that the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam National Hospital, the Ayush Center of Excellence, and a veterinary school with an animal hospital are all part of the promising future ahead.