Are India and Mauritius One in Dreams and Destiny? PM Modi

Varanasi, Sep 11 (NationPress) Reinforcing a shared vision for peace and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and for the Global South, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Mauritius counterpart Navinchandra Ramgoolam engaged in delegation-level discussions in Varanasi on Thursday. The leaders thoroughly assessed the Enhanced Strategic Partnership between their nations and pinpointed new avenues to enhance collaboration across areas of mutual interest aimed at fostering shared prosperity for their nations, peoples, and the broader region.

Highlighting the strong ties between India and Mauritius, PM Modi remarked that the two countries are not merely partners but part of the same family. He emphasized that although India and Mauritius are distinct nations, their dreams and destiny are intertwined.

During a joint press conference with Ramgoolam, PM Modi unveiled India's special economic package for Mauritius, aimed at bolstering the infrastructure, employment, and healthcare sectors. He stated, "It is a point of pride for India to serve as a trusted and primary partner in Mauritius' development. Today, we have finalized a Special Economic Package tailored to the needs and priorities of Mauritius. This initiative will enhance infrastructure, generate new job opportunities, and fortify healthcare services."

He continued, "The first Jan Aushadhi Kendra outside India has now been set up in Mauritius. We have also committed to constructing an AYUSH Centre of Excellence, a 500-bed Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam National (SSRN) Hospital, and a Veterinary School and Animal Hospital in Mauritius. Additionally, we will advance projects such as the Chagos Marine Protected Area, the ATC tower at SSR International Airport, and the expansion of highways and ring roads. This package represents an investment in our shared future rather than mere assistance."

PM Modi also congratulated Ramgoolam and the citizens of Mauritius on the successful conclusion of the Chagos Agreement, calling it a "historic victory" for Mauritius' sovereignty. "I wholeheartedly congratulate Prime Minister Ramgoolam and the people of Mauritius on this achievement. India has consistently endorsed decolonization and the full recognition of Mauritius' sovereignty, standing firmly by Mauritius in this journey."

Welcoming the Mauritius leader to Varanasi, PM Modi expressed, "It is a source of pride for me to receive you in my parliamentary constituency. For centuries, Kashi has symbolized India's civilization and culture. Our traditions and values have traversed to Mauritius centuries ago, deeply embedding themselves in its way of life. Welcoming friends from Mauritius in Kashi signifies more than formality; it represents a spiritual union. Hence, I assert that India and Mauritius are not merely partners, but rather a family."

He announced collaborations between IIT Madras, the Indian Institute of Plantation Management, and the University of Mauritius, emphasizing that these agreements will elevate mutual partnerships in research, education, and innovation to a new pinnacle.

"Mauritius stands as a vital pillar in India’s Neighbourhood First policy and Vision Mahasagar. In March, I had the honor of participating in Mauritius' National Day celebrations. During that occasion, we elevated our relations to the status of an Enhanced Strategic Partnership. Today, we meticulously reviewed all aspects of bilateral cooperation and exchanged perspectives on regional and global matters."

PM Modi announced that India and Mauritius will work towards initiating trade in local currency. "UPI and RuPay cards were launched in Mauritius last year. Now, we will strive to enable trade in local currency. Energy security is a crucial element of our partnership. India is committed to supporting Mauritius' energy transition," he remarked.

Reiterating India's commitment to bolstering the security and maritime capabilities of Mauritius' Exclusive Economic Zone, he stated, "A free, open, secure, stable, and prosperous Indian Ocean is our shared priority. In this regard, India remains dedicated to enhancing the security and maritime capacity of Mauritius' Exclusive Economic Zone. India has always acted as the first responder and a net security provider in the Indian Ocean region."