PM Modi’s Visit to Mauritius: A Strategic Engagement for Future Cooperation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Mauritius on March 11-12 for National Day, reinforcing bilateral ties through various cooperative agreements and community engagement. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri highlighted the significance of this visit in setting future engagements, while celebrating the close relations between the two nations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Mauritius on March 11-12, serving as the Chief Guest for the National Day celebrations. This visit is seen as timely, allowing both countries to assess their bilateral relations and set the stage for future engagements, as indicated by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri during a recent media briefing.

During the visit, Prime Minister Modi will collaborate with Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam to inaugurate projects funded by India. Additionally, multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) will be signed focusing on areas such as capacity building, trade, combatting cross-border financial crimes, and fostering small and medium enterprises.

The Prime Minister will also engage with the Indian community and socio-cultural organizations in Mauritius. Notably, an Indian naval ship and the Indian Air Force’s Aakash Ganga skydiving team will be present for the celebrations on March 12, as discussed by the Foreign Secretary.

Upon arrival in Port Louis, Modi will be honored with a ceremonial welcome. He is expected to pay respects at the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, commemorating the contributions of the founding father of Mauritius and former leaders.

In meetings with President Dharambeer Gokhool and Prime Minister Ramgoolam, Modi is expected to address various diplomatic matters. The Foreign Secretary also mentioned past cooperation on Agalga Island, which has improved the emergency response capabilities amid natural disasters.

Prime Minister Ramgoolam expressed pride that Modi’s visit underscores the close ties between the two nations, noting that it is a significant honor amidst a busy schedule. Modi will also serve as the Guest of Honour at the flag-raising ceremony, which will include a cultural program to celebrate Mauritius’s diverse heritage.

Modi’s trip marks his second occasion as Chief Guest at Mauritius’s National Day, following his visit in 2015, where he engaged in key agreements, including improvements on Agalga Island.

Further emphasizing their bond, the Indian-origin population in Mauritius constitutes about 70% of its 1.3 million residents. The two countries share robust trade relations, with India being one of Mauritius’s largest trading partners and Mauritius serving as an important source of Foreign Direct Investment for India.

This engagement reiterates the commitment between India and Mauritius to strengthen their unique relationship, built on cultural exchange and economic cooperation, evidenced by various initiatives such as the Mahatma Gandhi Institute and the World Hindi Secretariat.

Overall, this visit aims to solidify the friendly relations and mutual collaborations observed throughout the years between India and Mauritius.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Mauritius signifies a crucial opportunity to enhance bilateral relations and address key areas of cooperation. Through inaugurations and MOUs, the visit aims to solidify trade, cultural ties, and support for the local Indian community. Moreover, it reaffirms the long-standing commitment of both nations to deepen their cooperative endeavors, ultimately fostering a robust partnership that benefits both countries.

Original Source: www.dailyexcelsior.com