PM Modi in Mauritius to strengthen bilateral ties
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Port Louis on Tuesday morning for a pivotal two-day visit to Mauritius aimed at strengthening the relationship between the two nations.
Upon arrival at the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, PM Modi was welcomed with a ceremonial reception by his Mauritian counterpart, Navinchandra Ramgoolam. Members of the Indian diaspora gathered outside the Oberoi Hotel in Port Louis to greet the Indian Prime Minister.
PM Modi is scheduled to attend the National Day celebrations of Mauritius as the Chief Guest on March 12, following an invitation from Prime Minister Ramgoolam.
This visit holds special significance as it marks PM Modi’s first trip to Mauritius since 2015, when he introduced India’s Vision SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region), underscoring the importance of cooperation in the Indian Ocean region.
During his visit, PM Modi will meet with the President of Mauritius, Dharam Gokhool, and hold talks with Prime Minister Ramgoolam and other senior officials. He will also engage with leaders of various political parties and members of the Indian-origin community, who play a vital role in Mauritius’ cultural and social landscape.
PM Modi will inaugurate two key projects — the Civil Service College and the Area Health Centre — both constructed with grant assistance from India, reflecting India’s continued commitment to supporting Mauritius’ development.
Several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) are expected to be signed during the visit, focusing on maritime security, healthcare, trade, small and medium enterprises, and capacity building. The visit aligns with India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, aimed at fostering stronger regional ties.
A significant highlight of the National Day celebrations will be the participation of Indian Defence forces. An Indian Navy contingent, along with an Indian Navy ship, will take part in the event. An Indian Navy helicopter, the Akash Ganga Skydiving Team from the Indian Air Force, and a group of NCC cadets will also showcase their skills during the celebrations.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that both countries will sign a technical agreement for sharing white-shipping information between the Indian Navy and Mauritian authorities. This move is expected to enhance Mauritius’ maritime security by improving surveillance and real-time data sharing.
Misri added that PM Modi and PM Ramgoolam will jointly oversee the signing of several MoUs focused on capacity building, bilateral trade, combating cross-border financial crimes, and promoting small and medium enterprises.
High-level diplomatic engagement between India and Mauritius has remained consistent. President Murmu attended Mauritius’ National Day celebrations in 2024 as the Chief Guest, while Mauritius has been represented at PM Modi’s swearing-in ceremonies in 2014, 2019, and 2024.
Mauritius was also a special invitee at the G20 Summit in 2023 and co-launched the Global Biofuels Alliance alongside India and other nations.
The visit reinforces the strong historical ties between the two nations and marks a new chapter in their strategic partnership, with fresh collaborations set to enhance development and security in the region.
