New Delhi/Dubai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a two-day visit to Mauritius from March 11 to 12, where he will be the Chief Guest at the island nation’s National Day celebrations on March 12. The visit holds immense diplomatic and strategic importance, with both countries aiming to further strengthen their long-standing relationship through key agreements in trade, defence, and maritime security.
Key Agendas and Agreements
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi will hold high-level discussions with Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam. Several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) are expected to be signed, focusing on:
- Trade and Investment: Expanding bilateral trade and promoting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
- Capacity Building: Strengthening cooperation in education, skill development, and technology exchange.
- Financial Security: Addressing cross-border financial crimes and improving economic cooperation.
- Maritime Security: Enhancing surveillance and security in the Indian Ocean Region.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri highlighted the significance of these agreements, stating that they will pave the way for a “comprehensive and deeper engagement” between the two nations in the coming years.
Focus on Maritime Security
Given Mauritius’ strategic position in the Indian Ocean, maritime security will be a key component of discussions. A critical MoU will be signed to facilitate the sharing of white-shipping information between the Indian Navy and Mauritian authorities. This initiative will enhance Mauritius’ ability to monitor maritime trade routes and combat threats such as piracy, smuggling, and illegal fishing.
Additionally, India’s National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) will collaborate with Mauritius’ Ministry of Earth Sciences to improve oceanic research, observation, and data collection. This partnership will help in managing Mauritius’ maritime zones more effectively and in advancing scientific research related to oceanography.
Strengthening Defence Cooperation
India has been a consistent partner in bolstering Mauritius’ defence capabilities, supplying the country with Coast Guard ships, fast interceptor craft, and other defence equipment. As part of the visit, both countries are expected to sign additional agreements to enhance defence cooperation.
India has also extended soft loans to Mauritius, enabling the procurement of advanced defence platforms. According to Foreign Secretary Misri, India remains open to supporting Mauritius with further military and security requirements.
Development Projects Funded by India
During his visit, PM Modi will inaugurate key infrastructure projects that have been funded by India. These include:
- Civil Service College: A major institution aimed at strengthening Mauritius’ administrative services.
- Area Health Centre: A healthcare facility built with Indian assistance to improve medical services for Mauritian citizens.
India has played a crucial role in Mauritius’ development, contributing approximately $1.1 billion in aid over the years.
Expanding Trade Relations
India and Mauritius have witnessed significant growth in bilateral trade. In the financial year 2022-2023:
- Indian exports to Mauritius stood at $462 million
- Mauritius’ exports to India amounted to $91.5 million
- Total trade volume reached $554 million, marking a 132% increase since 2005
This visit is expected to further boost trade ties, with both nations looking to diversify economic collaboration.
India’s Vision SAGAR and the Indian Ocean Strategy
Mauritius’ location in the Indian Ocean makes it a crucial partner in India’s Vision SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region). This policy underscores India’s commitment to regional stability and maritime security.
A key highlight of PM Modi’s participation in the National Day celebrations will be a display of India-Mauritius defence ties, featuring a contingent of Indian armed forces and a visit by an Indian Navy ship.
