Prime Minister Modi’s Visit to Mauritius: Strengthening Economic and Security Ties

Prime Minister Modi is visiting Mauritius to celebrate its national day and will sign several agreements focused on economic and security cooperation, including initiatives for combating financial crimes and enhancing maritime security. The visit underscores the strong ties between India and Mauritius and explores further collaboration in various sectors.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to commence a two-day official visit to Mauritius, commencing Tuesday, to serve as the chief guest at their 57th national day celebrations. This visit will facilitate the signing of multiple agreements aimed at enhancing economic and security cooperation between India and Mauritius. A contingent from the Indian Armed Forces, including a warship from the Indian Navy and the Akash Ganga skydiving team, will also feature in the celebrations.

In remarks concerning the visit, Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam expressed, “It is indeed a singular privilege for our country to host such a distinguished personality. His acceptance to visit, despite his tight schedule, underscores the significance of our ties.” He affirmed that PM Modi’s visit reflects the robust relationship shared by the two nations.

The agenda for the visit includes the exchange of various Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between India and Mauritius. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri indicated that a key agreement concerning maritime security will involve the exchange of information on white shipping, enabling both countries to collaborate on preventing illegal activities and enhancing maritime awareness.

Furthermore, agreements will address capacity building, bilateral trade, the fight against cross-border financial crimes, and the promotion of small and medium enterprises. An MoU will also be signed for cooperation in maritime zone management and ocean research. Modi is expected to inaugurate a civil service college and a health center established through Indian grants during his visit.

An MoU aimed at combating financial crimes will be signed between India’s Enforcement Directorate and Mauritius’ Financial Crime Commission, focusing on intelligence sharing and technical assistance to combat money laundering. Additionally, Prime Minister Modi will engage with senior dignitaries and leaders from the Indian-origin community during his time in Mauritius.

The relationship between India and Mauritius has been historically strong, primarily due to the significant Indian-origin population, which constitutes approximately 70% of the nation’s populace. Since 2005, India has been a leading trading partner, with trade volume increasing from USD 206 million in 2005-06 to USD 554 million in 2022-23, reflecting a 132% growth over the past 17 years.

Maritime security and defense collaboration have also expanded in recent years. India has facilitated improvements to a strategic airstrip on Agalega, an outer island of Mauritius, to enhance its capacity to oversee its expansive exclusive economic zone. The relationship is reinforced by historical ties, such as PM Ramgoolam’s connection to India, notably during health challenges.

Even amid Chinese influences, Mauritius is committed to maintaining its partnership with India in the Indian Ocean Region, focusing on the development of cooperative frameworks for ocean management and research. Following a China-Mauritius Free Trade agreement, Mauritius also established a comprehensive economic partnership agreement with India, reflecting its strategic balancing act.

In his 2015 visit, Modi introduced the SAGAR doctrine, emphasizing maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean. The forthcoming discussions and agreements during this visit are expected to solidify India’s partnership with Mauritius and further enhance the strategic dynamics in the region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s impending visit to Mauritius signifies a vital step in fortifying the longstanding relationship between India and Mauritius. Through various agreements and high-level discussions, both nations aim to bolster economic ties, enhance maritime security, and combat financial crimes. The visit not only reflects their robust partnership but also positions India as an influential player in the Indian Ocean region, amid the evolving geopolitical landscape.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com