Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Mauritius for two days, participating in its 57th national day celebrations. He is welcomed by PM Ramgoolam and will engage in discussions focused on bilateral agreements. The visit signifies a strengthening of India-Mauritius relations, particularly in capacity building, trade, and security matters.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Port Louis, Mauritius, on Tuesday for a two-day official visit, where he will participate as the guest of honour during the 57th national day celebrations. His arrival was warmly welcomed by Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam at the airport. This trip signifies an important diplomatic engagement between India and Mauritius.
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi is expected to engage in discussions with senior Mauritian leaders, sign various agreements focused on capacity building, trade, and collaborative efforts to combat cross-border financial crimes. The two nations aim to strengthen their bilateral ties through this engagement.
Notably, a contingent of the Indian armed forces will be present for the national day celebrations, including the participation of Indian Navy warships and the Akash Ganga skydiving team from the Indian Air Force. This military presence reflects the shared commitment of both countries towards mutual cooperation in defence and security.
Prior to his departure, PM Modi expressed optimism regarding the visit, stating it would initiate a “new and bright” chapter in India-Mauritius relations. He emphasized their historical and cultural connections, highlighting mutual trust and shared democratic values as vital strengths.
Throughout his two-day stay, Modi will meet with the President of Mauritius, senior dignitaries, and representatives from the political sector. Additionally, he plans to interact with the Indian diaspora and inaugurate significant projects such as the civil service college and the health centre developed with India’s assistance.
Significant agreements during the visit will cover various sectors, including a technical agreement for white shipping information exchange between the Indian Navy and Mauritius. Other agreements focus on capacity building and mutual economic growth, as well as a memorandum of understanding aimed at enhancing cooperation against financial crimes.
This marks PM Modi’s third visit to Mauritius, with previous visits occurring in 1998 and 2015. The enduring friendship is further solidified by the sizeable Indian-origin population, which makes up approximately 70 percent of Mauritius’ citizens, creating unique socio-cultural bonds between the two nations.
Moreover, India has reiterated its support for Mauritius in negotiating a favorable agreement with the United Kingdom concerning the Chagos Islands in the Indian Ocean. Discussions regarding this matter are anticipated to take place between PM Modi and his Mauritian counterpart.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Mauritius is a significant diplomatic endeavor aimed at enhancing relationships between India and Mauritius. The planned discussions on cooperative agreements, military participation in national celebrations, and significant infrastructure projects highlight the strategic importance of this bilateral partnership. Modi’s foresight in addressing historical ties and contemporary issues underscores the ongoing commitment to fostering mutual prosperity and collaboration.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
