Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s deep-rooted friendship with Mauritius during his visit for the country’s National Day celebrations. Addressing a joint press conference with Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam, he spoke about the shared history, cultural ties, and the growing strategic partnership between the two nations. Expressing gratitude for the warm hospitality, he underscored that India and Mauritius are not just connected by the Indian Ocean but by centuries of traditions, values, and a common vision for development.
Highlighting the strong bilateral cooperation, the Prime Minister pointed out India’s active role in Mauritius’ infrastructure and social development. From the Metro Express to improve public transport, the Supreme Court building for better justice delivery, social housing projects for comfortable living, and healthcare initiatives such as the ENT Hospital and affordable medicine centers, India’s contributions have touched the lives of Mauritian citizens in many ways. The introduction of UPI and RuPay has further strengthened economic and tourism ties between the two nations. He also emphasized how enhanced connectivity in Agaléga played a crucial role in delivering humanitarian aid to those affected by Cyclone Chido, saving many lives.
A major announcement from the meeting was the decision to elevate India-Mauritius relations to an ‘Enhanced Strategic Partnership.’ As part of this, India will support the construction of a new Parliament building in Mauritius, a symbolic gift from the “Mother of Democracy.” Additionally, efforts will be made to modernize a 100 km-long water pipeline, launch new community development projects worth 500 million Mauritian Rupees, and train 500 Mauritian civil servants in India over the next five years. A significant step forward in economic ties was the agreement to settle mutual trade in local currencies, reducing dependency on external currencies and strengthening economic stability.
On the security front, both leaders reiterated their commitment to ensuring a free, open, and secure Indian Ocean region. India pledged full support for Mauritius’ Exclusive Economic Zone security, including assistance in strengthening its Coast Guard and setting up a Police Academy and National Maritime Information Sharing Centre. The partnership will also expand in areas like white shipping, the blue economy, and hydrography. Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s respect for Mauritius’ sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago and pledged cooperation in multilateral forums such as the Colombo Security Conclave and the Indian Ocean Rim Association.
Recognizing the importance of people-to-people ties, the two leaders announced initiatives in digital health, education, skills development, and AI-driven public infrastructure. Special facilitation will be provided for Mauritian citizens visiting India for the Char Dham Yatra and Ramayan Trail, strengthening cultural and spiritual bonds. Efforts will also be made to preserve and promote the Girmitiya heritage, honoring the legacy of Indian indentured laborers in Mauritius.
In a vision for global cooperation, Prime Minister Modi introduced a new framework called MAHASAGAR – “Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.” This initiative builds on India’s existing SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision but extends beyond the Indian Ocean to promote sustainable development, trade, capacity building, and security partnerships across the Global South. India will support partner nations through technology sharing, concessional loans, and grants, ensuring inclusive progress.
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude to the people of Mauritius for their warmth and hospitality, extending a cordial invitation to Prime Minister Ramgoolam to visit India. The visit marked yet another milestone in the long-standing friendship between the two nations, reaffirming a future of shared prosperity, mutual respect, and deeper collaboration.
