Mauritius’ Opportunity for Bilateral Agreement with the US

Jean Raymond Boulle, a well-known Mauritian entrepreneur, has emphasised the crucial opportunity before Mauritius to establish a bilateral agreement with the United States, coinciding with the upcoming 17th US-Africa Economic Summit in June in Luanda, Angola. This summit could allow Mauritius to join several African nations that previously capitalised on similar agreements at the last summit held in Dallas, Texas.

But is it feasible for Mauritius to sign such an agreement? Boulle is convinced.

Recognised globally for his enterprises in nickel, cobalt, copper, zinc, titanium, and diamonds—boasting publicly traded shares—Boulle shared his insights in an interview with l’express.

“As a Mauritian, I will do everything possible to support Mauritius,” he declared.

“The signing of such an agreement is entirely within reach. I hope the government is represented at the summit in Luanda this June.

We need to build many bridges with the new American administration and must strive to achieve this.”

In essence, Boulle passionately advocated that Mauritius should seize this chance, much like numerous other African countries did during the 16th US-Africa Economic Summit from May 3 to 6, 2024, where five African presidents, three prime ministers, sixteen ministerial delegations, and around 1,500 participants took part in significant dialogues.

Several bilateral agreements were established with the United States during this pivotal gathering.

Boulle’s emphasis on Mauritius’s participation in the upcoming summit is further supported by a statement from the Angolan presidency, released on October 24, 2024, acknowledging the strategic importance of this event.

It will bring together government leaders, business executives, and investors from both regions, potentially strengthening economic, commercial, and investment ties between Africa and the United States.

The summit’s agenda is to explore investment opportunities, innovation, and collaborations between the public and private sectors, particularly focusing on infrastructure, energy, technology, agriculture, and industry.

Boulle’s involvement as Vice-President of the Corporate Council on Africa (CCA) reinforced his dedication to securing Mauritius’s presence in Angola.

The CCA, co-organising the summit, plays a vital role in advocating for American interests within Africa.

It comprises over 130 member companies and represents a substantial 80% of private American investments on the continent, aiming to advance policies that bolster American commercial leadership while ensuring mutual prosperity.

In a document titled Corporate Council on Africa (CCA) Recommendations to the Trump Administration on Securing American Leadership in Africa, it is noted that American companies are uniquely positioned to outperform China and other rivals in Africa, leveraging superior technology, innovation, and business practices that appeal to African partners.

However, attaining a leadership role necessitates focused government backing and the implementation of strategic policies to compete effectively with the coordinated initiatives of their rivals.

The same document also addresses the pressing need for the United States to increase its investment in Africa:

“Despite the countless opportunities available in Africa, American private investment still lags behind that of competitors.

Reforms and strategic support are necessary to assist American firms in overcoming perceived risks and capturing market share.”

As the summit approaches, Mauritius stands at a decisive crossroads—its opportunity to engage with the United States is a tantalising prospect, yet it must act swiftly to avoid missing this crucial chance.

Source: l’Express