Port Louis, March 11 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Mauritius on Tuesday to a warm and grand ceremonial welcome as he embarked on a two-day state visit. His visit marks a significant milestone in India-Mauritius relations, as he participates in the island nation’s National Day celebrations as the chief guest and engages in high-level discussions with its leadership.
Upon landing at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, PM Modi was received with a special gesture of friendship by his Mauritian counterpart, Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam, who personally welcomed him with a garland. The reception was attended by a distinguished gathering, including Deputy Prime Minister, Chief Justice of Mauritius, Speaker of the National Assembly, Leader of the Opposition, Foreign Minister, Cabinet Secretary, and Chairperson of Grand Port District Council, along with 200 other dignitaries.
Expressing his gratitude, PM Modi posted on X:
“Landed in Mauritius. I am grateful to my friend, PM Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam, for the special gesture of welcoming me at the airport. This visit is a wonderful opportunity to engage with a valued friend and explore new avenues for collaboration in various sectors.”
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
During his visit, PM Modi is set to hold crucial discussions with Mauritian President Dharam Gokhool and Prime Minister Ramgoolam. He will also address a community programme in the evening, highlighting the deep-rooted ties between the two nations.
Several agreements aimed at enhancing cooperation in capacity building, trade, and tackling cross-border financial crimes are expected to be signed during the visit. This is in line with India’s long-standing commitment to supporting Mauritius in its development journey.
Before departing for Mauritius, PM Modi stated that the visit would mark a “new and bright chapter” in India-Mauritius relations.
Key Engagements and Inaugurations
PM Modi will also inaugurate two landmark projects—the Civil Service College and the Area Health Centre—both built with India’s grant assistance, reflecting India’s role as a trusted development partner.
In his departure statement, he emphasized India’s commitment to deepening the partnership between the two nations:
“I look forward to engaging with the leadership of Mauritius to elevate our partnership in all its facets and strengthen our enduring friendship for the progress and prosperity of our peoples.”
India’s Strong Presence at National Day Celebrations
A contingent of the Indian Armed Forces, along with an Indian Navy warship and the Akash Ganga skydiving team of the Indian Air Force, will actively participate in Mauritius’ National Day celebrations on Wednesday, showcasing the robust defense and strategic ties between the two countries.
Highlighting the special bond, PM Modi remarked:
“Mauritius is a close maritime neighbor, a key partner in the Indian Ocean, and a gateway to the African continent. We are connected by history, geography, and culture. Deep mutual trust, a shared belief in democracy, and the celebration of our diversity are our strengths.”
Historical and Economic Ties
India has been one of Mauritius’ largest trading partners, further strengthening its ties with the island nation, which gained independence in 1968. A key factor in this relationship is the Indian-origin population, which makes up nearly 70% of Mauritius’ 1.2 million residents.
Ahead of PM Modi’s visit, India reaffirmed its support for Mauritius’ negotiations with the UK regarding the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, a matter expected to feature prominently in Modi’s talks with PM Ramgoolam. Last year, the UK announced its decision to return control of the islands to Mauritius after more than 50 years, a move India has welcomed.
This visit, Modi’s first to Mauritius since 2015, is set to further solidify the already strong India-Mauritius partnership, opening new avenues for cooperation across multiple sectors.
