India and Mauritius have signed eight key agreements to strengthen their bilateral relations, elevating them to an ‘enhanced strategic partnership’. These agreements focus on trade, maritime security, and cooperation in MSMEs, among others. Prime Minister Modi also introduced the ‘MAHASAGAR’ initiative, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to development and security in the region.
India and Mauritius have formally elevated their relationship to an ‘enhanced strategic partnership’ by signing eight significant agreements aimed at fostering collaboration in various sectors, including trade, maritime security, and economic development. This announcement coincided with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unveiling of a broader vision for the Global South during his two-day visit to Port Louis, where he was the chief guest at national day celebrations.
The signed agreements will facilitate the promotion of national currencies in cross-border transactions, the sharing of maritime data, and joint efforts to combat money laundering. Additionally, there will be enhanced cooperation in the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector. Modi’s visit emphasized both nations’ commitment to maritime security and defense cooperation, reaffirming their shared interests in maintaining a secure Indian Ocean.
Modi introduced a new approach termed “MAHASAGAR” or “Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions,” which followed the foundational SAGAR policy he had announced during a previous visit to Mauritius in 2015. He highlighted that this new initiative aims to focus on trade development, sustainable growth through capacity-building, and mutual security for a prosperous future.
India will provide support to Mauritius in bolstering its Coast Guard and establishing a police academy and maritime information sharing center while sustaining cooperation in areas such as blue economy and hydrography. Furthermore, India is supporting Mauritius in its dealings with the United Kingdom regarding the Chagos Islands, crucial for its national interests.
The two Prime Ministers have also prioritized development projects with significant financial investment from India. Modi indicated efforts to modernize Mauritius’ water pipeline and implement new community development initiatives worth 500 million Mauritian rupees. Trade will also be conducted in local currencies to enhance economic interaction between the countries.
Modi outlined various India-funded projects in Mauritius, stressing their impact on infrastructure and services, including improvements in health care and education. He emphasized the importance of people-to-people connections, promising cooperation in artificial intelligence and digital public infrastructure, which will enrich human development in Mauritius.
The recent signing of eight MoUs between India and Mauritius marks a significant enhancement in bilateral relations, focusing on multiple sectors vital for mutual growth. The introduction of the ‘MAHASAGAR’ framework exemplifies India’s commitment to regional stability and development, which includes economic cooperation and defense collaboration. This partnership not only reinforces India’s historical ties with Mauritius, fueled by a shared cultural heritage but also outlines future collaborative projects that promise substantial benefits for both nations.
Original Source: www.news18.com
