Navin Ramgoolam Holds Bilateral Meetings with 5 Countries at Ocean Conference

Mauritius Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam engaged in a busy schedule of diplomatic meetings on the first day of the UN Ocean Conference (UNO3) in Nice, France, June 2025. His activities focused on ocean economy, maritime security, and ocean governance.

At the plenary session at Port Lympia, Ramgoolam delivered remarks emphasizing Mauritius’s maritime focus.

Navin Ramgoolam highlighted the strategic importance of the ocean for small island states, describing it as a vital driver of development and food security.

Participation in “Africa for the Ocean” Summit:

The Prime Minister co-presided over this summit at the Palais des Rois Sardes, alongside French President Emmanuel Macron and Princess Lalla Hasnaa of Morocco.

Regional Cooperation:
Ramgoolam held discussions with Indian Minister of Earth Sciences Dr. Jitendra Singh on joint ocean research and marine data sharing.

Dr Ramgoolam also met with Seychelles Ambassador Georges Tirant to reaffirm commitment to sustainable ocean governance and praised France’s support during the Wakashio ecological disaster, as well as the ongoing assistance from the French Development Agency (AFD).

Climate and Environmental Initiatives:
Navin Ramgoolam exchanged views with Gina Bonne of the Indian Ocean Commission on regional efforts to combat coastal erosion, emphasizing the importance of climate resilience.

International Partnerships:
In a meeting with Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, Ramgoolam discussed shared economic challenges and sought Portugal’s expertise in tourism, blue economy, and maritime security. Portugal expressed interest in Mauritius’s bid for a UN Security Council seat for 2027-2028.

Official Photo Session:
A friendly photo opportunity captured moments of cooperation between delegations.

Discussions with the UK and Other Nations:
PM Ramgoolam met with UK Environment Minister Steve Reed. Topics included the Chagos Islands agreement, climate change challenges, and UK assistance for Mauritius in coastal erosion, territorial waters security, illegal fishing, and police reform. Both countries reaffirmed their strategic partnership.

Kyrgyzstan:
Discussions also took place with Kyrgyz officials, who seek stronger ties with Mauritius and support for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council.

Mauritian Initiatives and Statements

Fabrice David, Junior Minister for Agro-industry, Food Security, Blue Economy, and Fisheries, addressed the “Celebrating High Seas Action” forum.

He called for swift ratification of the BBNJ (Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction) Agreement, which Mauritius was among the first five countries to ratify.

David highlighted the agreement’s importance for environmental justice and sovereignty, especially concerning the Chagos archipelago. He also announced the creation of a Mauritian Oceanographic Institute.

Financial and Date Overview

• The conference took place on October 23, 2023, in Nice, France.
• Discussions included commitments and cooperation agreements, though specific financial figures were not detailed in this report.
• The date of the conference and the activities reflect ongoing efforts to position Mauritius as a key player in ocean governance and sustainable development.

Prime Minister Ramgoolam’s first day at the UN Ocean Conference in Nice saw significant diplomatic engagement, reaffirming Mauritius’s strategic maritime role and strengthening international partnerships, notably with France, the UK, Portugal, and regional neighbors.

The day’s events underscored Mauritius’s dedication to advancing ocean sustainability, climate resilience, and regional cooperation.

Source: l’Express