Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a two-day visit to Mauritius to attend national day celebrations. The visit aims to strengthen India-Mauritius relations through various agreements. It includes interactions with leaders and the Indian community, along with project inaugurations. The discussions will also touch on the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, a crucial topic for both nations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Mauritius for a two-day State Visit, where he is expected to partake in the national day celebrations as the chief guest and engage in discussions with prominent leaders. Modi is optimistic that this visit will initiate a “new and bright” chapter in India-Mauritius relations.
Modi’s visit, at the invitation of Mauritius Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam, aims to sign multiple agreements focused on enhancing cooperation in areas such as capacity building, trade, and combatting cross-border financial crimes. During his stay, he will meet with the President of Mauritius, the Prime Minister, and other key dignitaries.
Additionally, Prime Minister Modi is set to interact with members of the Indian community, inaugurating two significant projects: a civil service college and an area health center, both funded by India’s grant assistance. Modi articulated his anticipation for discussions that will bolster the partnership and mutual friendship between the nations.
A contingent of the Indian armed forces, including a warship and the Akash Ganga skydiving team from the Indian Air Force, will also take part in the celebrations. Modi emphasized the importance of Mauritius as a maritime neighbor and a vital partner in the Indian Ocean, highlighting their shared history, geography, and cultural bonds.
The longstanding cultural ties between India and Mauritius stem from a deep-rooted people-to-people connection, which Modi noted as a source of mutual pride. India maintains robust economic relations with Mauritius, which boasts a significant demographic comprising nearly 70 percent of Indian origin.
Moreover, preceding Modi’s visit, India reaffirmed its support for Mauritius amid ongoing negotiations with the UK regarding the Chagos Islands. The topic is expected to be discussed further during his meeting with Prime Minister Ramgoolam. Last October, the UK announced plans to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, concluding more than five decades of British control.
In summary, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Mauritius presents a significant opportunity to reinforce diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations. Through collaborative agreements and discussions, they aim to cultivate lasting partnerships while addressing historical issues, such as the Chagos Islands sovereignty. This visit is poised to mark a pivotal moment in the enduring friendship between India and Mauritius, underpinned by deep-rooted cultural connections.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
