What Did Mauritius PM Ramgoolam Discuss with President Murmu?

New Delhi, Sep 16 (NationPress) The Prime Minister of Mauritius, Navinchandra Ramgoolam, paid a visit to President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Tuesday, where they engaged in discussions surrounding the profound and historical connections between the two nations, founded on a shared heritage, language, culture, and values.

This meeting marked the conclusion of Prime Minister Ramgoolam's State Visit to India from September 9 to 16, during which he toured cities including Mumbai, Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Tirupati.

During the reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President noted that Mauritius holds a significant position in India's 'Neighbourhood First' Policy and the 'MAHASAGAR Vision', as well as in New Delhi's dedication to the Global South.

The President expressed satisfaction regarding the consistent growth of the partnership and cooperation between India and Mauritius across various sectors, which is evidenced by the recent elevation of their relationship to an 'Enhanced Strategic Partnership'.

She remarked, 'India is committed to supporting the developmental priorities of the Government of Mauritius'. She expressed optimism that the new Special Economic Package will fulfill the needs of the Mauritian government and its citizens. Projects such as hospitals, roadways, port advancements, defense acquisitions, and joint surveillance initiatives are expected to bolster infrastructure and positively affect the lives of many in the forthcoming years. Additionally, bilateral cooperation is expanding into new realms, including digital technologies and the space sector,' as stated in a release from the President's Secretariat following the meeting.

Both leaders concurred that the relationship between the two nations is exceptional, grounded in their shared history, language, culture, and values. The President expressed confidence that with Prime Minister Ramgoolam's extensive leadership experience, the longstanding bilateral ties between India and Mauritius will continue to strengthen in the future.

Prime Minister Ramgoolam also held a meeting with Vice President C P Radhakrishnan at the Vice-President's Enclave, where discussions centered on enhancing trade, economic, and interpersonal connections between the two nations.

Earlier that day, the Mauritius PM paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi and former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in New Delhi.

Upon his arrival in New Delhi on Monday night, Ramgoolam visited Rajghat to pay respects to Mahatma Gandhi. He also honored former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee at Sadaiv Atal.

Before reaching the capital, he participated in prayers at the Tirumala Temple in Tirupati alongside his wife.

On September 12, Ramgoolam, accompanied by his wife Veena Ramgoolam and a delegation of 30 members, visited the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple. He became the second head of state, following the Prime Minister of Bhutan, to visit and worship Ram Lalla at the grand temple.

The couple performed aarti and prayed before Ram Lalla, dedicating nearly half an hour to their devotion. They also observed the ongoing construction work of the temple.

Last week, Ramgoolam offered prayers at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, with Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel accompanying him during the temple visit.

Sharing images on X, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal tweeted, 'PM Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam of Mauritius offered prayers at the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Dham in Varanasi, a visit showcasing the deep cultural and civilizational bonds that connect India and Mauritius.'

On September 11, Ramgoolam also witnessed the Ganga Aarti on the ghats of Varanasi. Throughout his eight-day visit to India, he also met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 11, where both leaders reviewed all facets of their bilateral cooperation.