Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Mauritius for two days to mark its national day, focusing on enhancing economic and security ties through various agreements. Key discussions will involve maritime security and cooperation against financial crimes. The visit underscores the longstanding relationship between India and Mauritius, especially given the large Indian-origin population in Mauritius.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to embark on a two-day state visit to Mauritius starting on Tuesday, during which he will be the chief guest at the island nation’s 57th national day celebrations. This visit aims to strengthen economic and security ties between India and Mauritius, including the signing of multiple agreements. An Indian armed forces contingent, a naval warship, and the Akash Ganga skydiving team will also be part of the celebrations.
Mauritius’ Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam expressed his gratitude for PM Modi’s visit, emphasizing its significance in reflecting the close relations between the two countries. He stated, “It is indeed a singular privilege for our country to host such a distinguished personality who is doing us this honour.” The visit signifies the importance of mutual cooperation and partnership.
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Ramgoolam are expected to engage in comprehensive discussions, leading to the exchange of various Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri indicated that a notable agreement would involve the Indian Navy and Mauritius to enhance cooperation in combating illegal maritime activities.
Additionally, agreements related to capacity building, bilateral trade, and financial crime prevention will be signed. Notably, an MoU will be established between India’s Enforcement Directorate and the Financial Crime Commission of Mauritius to bolster efforts against money laundering and related criminal activities.
The longstanding ties between India and Mauritius are underpinned by cultural and historical links, as approximately 70 percent of Mauritius’ population is of Indian descent. India has been a key trading partner for Mauritius since 2005, with a significant increase in trade from USD 206 million in 2005-06 to USD 554 million in 2022-23.
India’s role as a development partner is also demonstrated through contributions to maritime security and infrastructure development in Mauritius. Cooperation has intensified in the context of India’s strategic interests in the Indian Ocean, as evidenced by infrastructural projects enhancing Mauritius’ capacity to monitor its exclusive economic zone.
Despite China’s growing influence in the region, Mauritius continues to align with India, exemplified by their agreement on ocean cooperation frameworks. This partnership is crucial for fostering stability and cooperation in the Indian Ocean, underpinning Narendra Modi’s doctrine of maritime collaboration established during his previous visit in 2015.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Mauritius symbolizes the deep-rooted diplomatic and economic ties between the nations. The agreements to be signed during this visit reflect a commitment to enhancing cooperation in maritime security and financial crime prevention, alongside the celebration of cultural connections. As India and Mauritius strengthen their partnership, they maintain a unified stance in the Indian Ocean region, amidst the influences of other global powers.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
