Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm welcome from the Indian community in Mauritius, marked by traditional Bihari songs, as he attended the country’s National Day celebrations on March 12. Modi was invited as the guest of honor, reflecting the strong ties between India and Mauritius.
Mauritius, located strategically in the western Indian Ocean, has a significant Indian-origin population, which makes up about 70% of its 1.2 million residents. This vibrant community has deep historical roots on the island and plays an essential role in its culture. Mauritius is home to institutions like the Mahatma Gandhi Institute and the Indira Gandhi Centre for Indian Culture, which highlight the country’s Indian heritage. You can also find popular Bhojpuri music groups that keep the culture alive.
The connection between India and Mauritius goes back to the 1700s, when many Indians moved to the island during French colonial rule, primarily as artisans. Later, in the 1800s, with the British in control, an influx of Indians arrived as indentured laborers after the abolition of slavery. A noteworthy moment in this history is the arrival of the ship ‘Atlas’ in 1834, which brought the first group of indentured workers; this day is now celebrated as Aapravasi Day in Mauritius. Over time, about two-thirds of Indians who settled in Mauritius chose to stay, deeply intertwining the two nations’ fates.
Independence Day in Mauritius, also celebrated on March 12, is another point of Indian connection. Mahatma Gandhi visited the island in 1901 while traveling to South Africa. He spoke on the importance of education and political empowerment, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
During his visit, PM Modi emphasized the importance of Mauritius as a maritime partner, highlighting shared values and cultural ties. He recognized that Mauritius serves as a crucial ally for India in the Indian Ocean Region, especially amidst increasing Chinese influence. Both countries are strengthening their military and maritime cooperation, with India assisting Mauritius to boost its security capabilities and conduct joint military exercises.
Mauritius not only serves as a strategic partner but also as an economic gateway for India to Africa. The island offers a stable political environment and favorable investment policies. The Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA) has further bolstered trade, with Indian businesses significantly involved in sectors like IT, financial services, and textiles. In 2022-23, trade between the two nations reached $554 million.
India has also supported various developmental projects in Mauritius, including the Metro Express and a new hospital. This collaborative spirit extends to their diplomatic relations as well. India backs Mauritius’ claims over the Chagos Archipelago, reinforcing its commitment to sovereignty and decolonization. The International Court of Justice has recognized Mauritius’ rights over this territory, further strengthening India’s partnership in the region.
With its rich tapestry of culture and deep historical roots between the two nations, Mauritius remains a significant ally for India, often referred to as “Mini India” due to its large population of Indian descent. The shared history and ongoing cooperation continue to shape the relationship between these two countries.
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