Prime Minister Modi’s two-day visit to Mauritius includes participation in national day celebrations and signing several agreements enhancing economic and security relations. Key topics include maritime security, combating financial crimes, and bilateral trade, reflecting the longstanding ties between India and Mauritius, particularly with Mauritius’ large Indian-origin population.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend Mauritius’ 57th national day celebrations as the chief guest during a two-day visit, commencing Tuesday. India and Mauritius are expected to formalize various agreements enhancing their economic and security relations, including participation from the Indian Armed Forces and Navy. The event will also see the involvement of India’s Akash Ganga skydiving team.
Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam expressed reverence for Modi’s visit, emphasizing its significance in the context of India-Mauritius relations. He noted, “It is indeed a singular privilege for our country to host such a distinguished personality… as our special guest.” This visit signifies the depth of relations between the two nations.
Several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) will be signed to strengthen collaboration. Notably, a technical agreement regarding white shipping information exchange will enhance both nations’ capabilities in maritime security. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri highlighted that this agreement will facilitate cooperation to prevent illegal maritime activities.
In addition to maritime agreements, the MoUs will cover capacity building, bilateral trade, and efforts against financial crimes. An agreement between India’s Enforcement Directorate and Mauritius’ Financial Crime Commission will focus on combating money laundering. Modi will also inaugurate a civil service college and a health center funded by India.
India enjoys a historically close relationship with Mauritius, where roughly 70% of the population is of Indian origin. India has been a vital trading partner, with trade growing significantly from $206 million in 2005-06 to $554 million in 2022-23. India has also been key in enhancing Mauritius’ maritime capabilities in managing its extensive exclusive economic zone.
Despite the growing presence of China in the region, Mauritius has maintained a strong partnership with India, previously signing an economic cooperation agreement following a China-Mauritius Free Trade deal. Modi’s SAGAR initiative from 2015 continues to guide maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean, fostering security and growth for the region.
Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming visit to Mauritius underscores the strengthening ties and shared interests in maritime security and economic cooperation between the two nations. With various agreements anticipated to be signed, including critical measures to combat financial crimes and enhance maritime awareness, the visit is a clear indication of India’s commitment to support its close maritime neighbor amidst regional dynamics.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
