PM Modi’s Two-Day State Visit to Mauritius: Strengthening Bilateral Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has commenced a two-day visit to Mauritius to participate in National Day celebrations and engage in discussions with Mauritian leadership. The visit aims to solidify bilateral agreements on cooperation in trade and security. Modi will also meet with the Indian community and inaugurate two projects funded by India while reaffirming support for Mauritius regarding the Chagos Islands dispute.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Mauritius on Tuesday for a two-day state visit, during which he will be the chief guest at the National Day celebrations and engage with the nation’s leadership. Invited by Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam, the visit aims to formalize several agreements to enhance cooperation in various areas, including trade and tackling cross-border financial crimes, according to reports by PTI.

Prior to his departure, PM Modi expressed his hope that the visit would herald a “new and bright” chapter in bilateral relations. His agenda includes meetings with the Mauritian president, discussions with Prime Minister Ramgoolam, and engagements with senior officials and political figures. Modi will also connect with the Indian diaspora and inaugurate two significant India-funded projects—the Civil Service College and the Area Health Centre.

Emphasizing the significance of his engagement, PM Modi stated, “I look forward to engaging with the leadership of Mauritius to elevate our partnership in all its facets and strengthen our enduring friendship for the progress and prosperity of our peoples.” Notably, a contingent of the Indian armed forces will participate in the Wednesday celebrations, accompanied by an Indian Navy warship and the Indian Air Force’s Akash Ganga skydiving team.

In his remarks about the relationship between India and Mauritius, PM Modi underscored, “Mauritius is a close maritime neighbour, a key partner in the Indian Ocean, and a gateway to the African Continent.” He highlighted the longstanding ties, stating that the two countries are united by their history, geography, and culture, with both sharing strong democratic values and diversity.

PM Modi acknowledged the profound people-to-people connections as a source of shared pride. His previous visit were in 2015, and India remains a significant trading partner for Mauritius. Notably, the country, which achieved independence in 1968, boasts an Indian-origin population constituting nearly 70% of its 1.2 million citizens.

India has reiterated its support for Mauritius regarding the Chagos Islands dispute with the UK, an issue likely to arise in discussions between Modi and Prime Minister Ramgoolam. The UK recently announced plans to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius following a historic agreement made last year, ending over five decades of control.

In conclusion, PM Modi’s two-day visit to Mauritius is pivotal for strengthening bilateral ties and cooperation in various domains, including trade and security. The visit highlights India’s commitment to fostering a robust partnership, with significant projects and discussions aimed at mutual progress. Additionally, the ongoing support for Mauritius in the Chagos Islands dispute emphasizes India’s role as a strategic ally in the region.

Original Source: www.onmanorama.com