Narendra Modi: 5 Key Announcements Strengthen India-Mauritius Relations

On a rain-soaked day, the Champ-de-Mars came alive with a vivid display of colours, embodying a profound sense of unity and pride. 12th March’s ceremony was a poignant celebration of patriotism and multinational camaraderie, commencing with the stirring notes of the national anthem and the raising of the flag.

Amidst the rain, a grand military and civilian parade took place, featuring not only the forces of Mauritius but also delegations from Seychelles and the second regiment of French parachute infantry stationed in La Réunion—a powerful demonstration of regional solidarity.

Despite the drizzle, the audience was enthralled by lively performances, including the energetic majorettes from Queen Elizabeth College, as well as marches from Scouts, the Red Cross, and First Aid teams.

In the skies above, captivating aerial displays from the Police Helicopter Squadron thrilled the spectators, although the rain eventually brought a premature end to the outdoor celebrations.

A New Era for Governance in Mauritius
In a significant address, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a range of initiatives designed to strengthen the partnership between India and Mauritius.

Among the most noteworthy was the pledge to construct a new parliament building for Mauritius, described by Modi as a “gift from the mother of democracy.”

He further introduced several development projects through e-inaugurations, including a health centre in Cap-Malheureux and crucial infrastructure improvements.

The announcement included the replacement of a 100-kilometre pipeline and an investment of Rs 500 million for community development, signalling a firm commitment to modernising local facilities.

Additionally, Modi committed to training 500 Mauritian civil servants in India over the next five years, reinforcing the shared vision for a collaborative future.

During his address, Modi stressed the crucial role of Indian support in key areas such as defence, maritime security, health, education, and the evolving blue economy.

Defence and maritime security emerged as central topics during discussions between Modi and his counterpart, Navin Ramgoolam.

The Indian Prime Minister reaffirmed his commitment to a free, secure, and prosperous Indian Ocean, announcing increased support for the Mauritian Coast Guard, the establishment of a police academy, and a national maritime information centre.

Modi also expressed ongoing support for international forums such as the Colombo Security Conclave and the Indian Ocean Rim Association.

The delicate issue of Chagos was also touched upon, with Modi assuring that India fully respects Mauritius’ sovereignty and will continue to advocate for its interests on the global stage.

New Horizons with ‘Vision Sagar’
Looking beyond current collaborations, India aims to enhance its partnerships with the ambitious Maha Sagar initiative, which seeks to promote growth and security for nations in the South.

This vision rests on three main pillars: trade for development, capacity building for sustainable growth, and mutual security for a shared future.

Cultural Bridges Strengthened
In a significant gesture of cultural connection, Modi announced new provisions to facilitate pilgrimages for Mauritians to sacred sites such as the Char Dham and the Ramayana Trail in India.

Forging New Agreements
The day also featured a session at the National Assembly where various memoranda of understanding were signed between Mauritius and India.

Prime Minister Ramgoolam praised this productive cooperation, revealing the establishment of a Mauritius-India joint document to enhance their strategic partnership and expand collaboration into emerging fields like space research, artificial intelligence, digital health, and ocean economy.

Beyond the agreements signed, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Mauritius signifies a landmark moment in the deepening of historical and strategic relations between the two nations, setting the stage for a more collaborative and promising future.

Source: l’Express