Australia Strengthens Partnership with Mauritius During Ministerial Visit

Following Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s visit to Mauritius on November 20, where he engaged in discussions with Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Tim Watts has now arrived in the country leading a delegation.

During his visit, Watts met with Ramgoolam, alongside Chief of Staff Melanie Littlejohn and Australian High Commissioner to Mauritius, Kate Chamley.

The discussions covered a range of topics including education, the blue economy, maritime security, climate change challenges, and the Indian Ocean Rim Association.

Watts emphasized the strong ties between Mauritius and Australia, stating, “Mauritius and Australia are connected not only by geography but also by demographics.

The second-largest Mauritian diaspora in the world resides in Australia.”

He highlighted Canberra’s intention to deepen collaboration with Port Louis, particularly as both nations face growing challenges in the Indian Ocean.

Moreover, Watts noted that the largest international university campus in Africa, Curtin University, is located in Mauritius.

“We are collaborating on educating the next generation of young Mauritians as well as individuals across the African continent,” he said.

He pointed out that, given the increasing challenges in the Indian Ocean, both countries may need to work together in various areas, including enhancing maritime capabilities, creating shared opportunities in the blue economy, and improving maritime safety and security in the region.

Furthermore, Watts mentioned that Mauritius and Australia are also working closely together in international forums such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association.

He highlighted the significance of partnerships, noting that the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom are close allies within the trilateral security partnership known as AUKUS.

Additionally, Australia is an active member of the Quad, which includes the United States, India, and Japan—two groups that place a high priority on maritime security in the Indian Ocean.

Source: Le Mauricien