PM Modi Commences Historic Two-Day Visit to Mauritius
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Synopsis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarks on a significant two-day journey to Mauritius, attending National Day celebrations and engaging in discussions to enhance bilateral relations, focusing on development and cooperation in various sectors.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi's visit is aimed at strengthening India-Mauritius ties.
- He will attend National Day celebrations as Chief Guest.
- Inauguration of key facilities funded by India.
- Several MoUs will be signed to foster bilateral cooperation.
- Participation of Indian defense forces in National Day events.
New Delhi, March 11 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi is poised to arrive in Mauritius for a historic two-day visit starting Tuesday, aimed at bolstering the bonds between the two countries.
On March 12, PM Modi will serve as the Chief Guest at the country's National Day celebrations, following an invitation from Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam. This visit is particularly significant as it marks PM Modi's first trip to Mauritius since 2015, when he unveiled India's Vision SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region), highlighting the essential role of collaboration in the Indian Ocean region.
During his stay, PM Modi will meet with the President of Mauritius and engage in talks with the Prime Minister and other high-ranking officials. He will also interact with leaders of political parties and members of the Indian-origin community, which significantly contributes to the cultural and social landscape of Mauritius.
As part of his itinerary, PM Modi will inaugurate two vital facilities: the Civil Service College and the Area Health Centre, both constructed with India's grant aid, further solidifying the developmental partnership between the nations.
Several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) are anticipated to be signed during this visit, symbolizing the expanding bilateral cooperation across multiple fields, including maritime safety, health, small and medium enterprises, trade, and capacity building. PM Modi's trip is also expected to strengthen India’s Neighbourhood First policy, which seeks to enhance India’s engagement with neighboring countries.
A notable feature of the National Day celebrations will be the involvement of Indian defense forces. A contingent from the Indian Navy and an Indian Navy ship will participate in the festivities.
Moreover, an Indian Navy helicopter, the Akash Ganga Skydiving Team from the Indian Air Force, and a group of NCC cadets will also join the event.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has confirmed that both nations will formalize a technical agreement to exchange white-shipping information between the Indian Navy and Mauritian authorities. This agreement will significantly augment the maritime security of Mauritius, safeguarding its trading routes while enhancing cooperation to combat illegal activities. It will also bolster Mauritius' maritime domain awareness and fortify regional collaboration for real-time data sharing.
"Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Ramgoolam will jointly inaugurate several projects supported by Indian assistance and will witness the signing of multiple MOUs on cooperation in capacity building, bilateral trade, addressing cross-border financial crimes, and promoting small and medium enterprises," stated Foreign Secretary Misri.
High-level interaction remains a consistent aspect of the India-Mauritius bilateral relationship. While President Droupadi Murmu was the Chief Guest for Mauritius' National Day in 2024, Mauritius has participated in the swearing-in ceremonies of PM Modi in 2014, 2019, and 2024.
Mauritius was also a 'special invitee' at the G20 Summit in 2023 and co-launched the Global Biofuels Alliance with India and other nations on its sidelines.
This visit highlights the robust and lasting relationship between India and Mauritius, marking a new chapter in their strategic partnership.
