Prime Minister Modi visited Mauritius to strengthen bilateral ties and explore collaboration opportunities. He received a ceremonial welcome and is set to participate in National Day celebrations, engage with key leaders, and inaugurate projects supported by India. Several agreements will be signed to enhance cooperation in various sectors, aligning with India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi characterized his recent two-day visit to Mauritius as an invaluable opportunity to engage with a significant ally and enhance bilateral relationships as he arrived in Port Louis on Tuesday. On the platform X, he expressed gratitude for the warm welcome from his counterpart, Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam. Modi emphasized the importance of exploring new collaborative avenues across various sectors during this visit.
Upon his arrival at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, PM Modi received a grand ceremonial welcome. Accompanying him were distinguished figures such as Mauritian Prime Minister Ramgoolam, Deputy Prime Minister Paul Berenger, and Chief Justice Rehana Mungly-Gulbul, among other officials. Notably, a gathering of 200 dignitaries, including MPs, MLAs, and religious leaders, warmly received the visiting Prime Minister.
The reception continued with members of the Indian diaspora welcoming PM Modi outside the Oberoi Hotel with traditional instruments and garlands. During his visit, he is scheduled to serve as the Chief Guest at the National Day celebrations on March 12 at the invitation of Prime Minister Ramgoolam. This marks Modi’s first visit to Mauritius since 2015 when he set forth India’s Vision SAGAR for regional cooperation in the Indian Ocean.
His itinerary includes meetings with President Dharam Gokhool and Prime Minister Ramgoolam, along with discussions with leaders from diverse political parties. PM Modi will also connect with the Indian-origin community in Mauritius, a vital part of the nation’s cultural and social fabric. In addition, he will inaugurate two significant projects—the Civil Service College and the Area Health Centre—both funded by Indian grants, further illustrating India’s commitment to Mauritius’ development.
During his trip, several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) are anticipated to be signed, addressing maritime security, healthcare, trade, small and medium enterprises, and capacity building. This visit aligns seamlessly with India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ initiative, aimed at bolstering relations with regional allies. A highlight of the National Day celebrations is the participation of Indian Defence forces, with contingents from the Indian Navy and Air Force showcasing their skills.
Vikram Misri, the Foreign Secretary, announced that India and Mauritius are set to finalize a technical agreement for sharing white-shipping information to bolster maritime security, enhance trade corridor oversight, and support regional collaboration for immediate data exchange. PM Modi and PM Ramgoolam will jointly unveil several India-supported initiatives and preside over the signing of MoUs focused on capacity development, bilateral trade, combating financial crimes, and promoting small businesses.
India-Mauritius relations have experienced high-level engagement recently, with Mauritius contributing as a special invitee for multiple G20 Summits and previous swearing-in ceremonies for PM Modi. This evolving partnership showcases a commitment towards mutual growth and collaboration.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Mauritius signifies a pivotal moment in strengthening bilateral ties between India and Mauritius. His engagements highlight significant collaborations in development, security, and cultural exchange. The anticipated signing of key agreements underscores a mutual commitment to foster relationships in various sectors, reaffirming India’s proactive approach in its regional partnerships. Such high-level interactions continue to enhance cooperation and promote shared interests between the two nations.
Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz
