India and Mauritius have upgraded their bilateral relations to an ‘enhanced strategic partnership’, signing eight agreements to promote cooperation in trade and security. Prime Minister Modi announced the MAHASAGAR initiative, focusing on mutual security and economic development. The partnership is marked by commitments to maritime security and various developmental projects in Mauritius, reinforcing the historical ties between the two nations.
India and Mauritius have strengthened their relations by establishing an ‘enhanced strategic partnership,’ formalized through eight significant agreements aimed at increasing collaboration across various sectors, including trade and maritime security. The agreements focus on enhancing the use of national currencies in cross-border transactions, sharing maritime data, combating money laundering, and fostering cooperation in the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Port Louis, attended Mauritius’s national day celebrations as the chief guest.
During his two-day visit, PM Modi met with Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, where they announced the new strategic framework known as “MAHASAGAR” (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions). This initiative aims to promote a free, open, and secure Indian Ocean, in response to China’s growing influence in the region. Prime Minister Modi emphasized that both nations prioritize maritime security and defense cooperation.
PM Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to ensuring the security of Mauritius’ Exclusive Economic Zone, stating, “We are committed to extend full cooperation in the security of Mauritius’ Exclusive Economic Zone.” He highlighted that this vision builds upon India’s previous strategy, SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region), which has informed engagement with the Indian Ocean Region over the last decade.
The Prime Minister indicated that MAHASAGAR will focus on enhancing trade, sustainable capacity-building, and a shared commitment to mutual security, with support facilitated through technology sharing, concessional loans, and grants. Notably, he announced India’s assistance in constructing a new Parliament building for Mauritius, which symbolizes India’s continued support.
In terms of defence cooperation, PM Modi assured Mauritius of India’s assistance in fulfilling the needs of its Coast Guard, the establishment of a police academy, and the creation of a national maritime information sharing center. He reiterated India’s respect for Mauritius’ sovereignty, particularly regarding the Chagos Islands, and expressed continued support for Mauritius in negotiations with the UK to resolve issues surrounding this territory.
The two leaders also reinforced their commitment to advancing bilateral relations, stating that they are partners in economic and social progress. PM Modi remarked on the importance of mutual assistance during crises, including natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring their collaboration across various fields, from education to health.
PM Modi announced a series of development projects in Mauritius, including the modernization of a 100-kilometer water pipeline and the initiation of new community development projects worth 500 million Mauritian rupees. He noted the importance of establishing mutual trade in local currencies and highlighted projects that India assists, such as the metro express system, a new Supreme Court building, and various healthcare facilities.
Additionally, PM Modi emphasized the significance of fostering close people-to-people connections, proposing the use of artificial intelligence and digital public infrastructure to enhance human development. He also announced that facilities would be offered for Mauritius residents to embark on religious journeys to India, such as the Char Dham Yatra and the Ramayana trail. The longstanding relationship between India and Mauritius is historically rooted in the Indian-origin populace, who constitute a significant majority of Mauritius’s population.
In conclusion, the elevated ties between India and Mauritius underscore a commitment to enhancing cooperation across diverse sectors, particularly in trade and security. The establishment of the MAHASAGAR initiative marks a strategic progression from previous policies, indicating a joint endeavor towards stability and development in the Indian Ocean region. The agreements reflect both nations’ intentions to work collaboratively in ensuring mutual growth while addressing key regional issues.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
