New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Mauritius for two days, starting Tuesday. This trip highlights India’s dedication to strengthening its role in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
As China boosts its presence through investments and military ties in the Indo-Pacific, India’s relationship with Mauritius—its closest ally in the region—becomes even more important. Modi noted, “Mauritius is a key maritime neighbor and a gateway to Africa. Our connections span history, geography, and culture.” He emphasized the importance of mutual trust and shared democratic values.
During his visit, Modi will be the chief guest at Mauritius’s National Day celebrations on March 12. This will mark his second trip to the island nation as Prime Minister, following his 2015 visit. The trip aims to enhance bilateral relations, improve maritime security, and strengthen India’s development partnerships in the Indian Ocean.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri highlighted that India has been a preferred development partner for Mauritius, helping in various initiatives, from healthcare to capacity building. He emphasized that this cooperation plays a crucial role in India’s vision for security and growth in the region.
Mauritius holds a strategic position in the Indian Ocean, making it vital for India’s regional security approach. The country has long relied on India for support in enhancing its maritime capabilities. Modi’s visit could lead to new defense agreements or initiatives in maritime security.
During the trip, Modi and Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam will inaugurate projects funded by India and sign several agreements aimed at boosting trade, combating financial crimes, and supporting small businesses.
This visit is critical as China is trying to gain influence among India’s other neighbors, including Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Recently, China managed to lift a suspension in Sri Lanka that limited foreign research vessels, a move that raises concerns about security in the region.
India aims to tackle challenges such as money laundering linked to Mauritius. An agreement between the Indian Enforcement Directorate and the Mauritian Financial Crimes Commission is expected to enhance cooperation in anti-corruption and anti-money laundering efforts.
Modi’s visit will also focus on the blue economy, exploring opportunities in fisheries and marine resources. Discussions on climate change and sustainable development are likely, reflecting India’s commitment to environmentally friendly growth.
The ties between India and Mauritius are deeply rooted in shared history and culture. Approximately 70% of Mauritius’s 1.2 million population is of Indian descent. India has played a significant role in Mauritius’s development since its independence in 1968.
Overall, Modi’s trip signals India’s determination to maintain its close partnership with Mauritius amid increasing competition in the Indian Ocean. This relationship is vital for mutual security and economic growth in the region.
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Source linkINDIA AND MAURITIUS, NAVINCHANDRA RAMGOOLAM, INDIAN OCEAN, PM NARENDRA MODI, INDIAN OCEAN DIPLOMACY: WHY PM MODI’S VISIT TO MAURITIUS MATTERS
