Team TrickyScribe: During a landmark State Visit to Mauritius from March 11-12, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Mauritian counterpart, Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam, reaffirmed the deep-rooted and evolving partnership between their nations. The two leaders engaged in extensive discussions, charting a course for an enhanced Strategic Partnership that spans trade, security, infrastructure, education, and cultural ties.
A Time-Tested Friendship with New Aspirations
Describing India as a “trusted partner,” the Prime Minister of Mauritius acknowledged India’s unwavering support in his nation’s socio-economic development since independence. Modi, in turn, emphasized Mauritius’ crucial role in India’s Vision SAGAR—Security and Growth for All in the Region—making it a linchpin in India’s Neighbourhood First and Global South strategies.
Political and Parliamentary Synergy
Recognizing the high degree of trust and mutual understanding between their governments, both leaders committed to deepening political exchanges. Mauritius’ participation in India’s G20 Presidency set the stage for future collaborations, including knowledge-sharing between Parliaments and intensified interactions between lawmakers.
Infrastructure and Development: A Shared Commitment
India has been Mauritius’ leading development partner, contributing significantly to its infrastructure landscape. Iconic projects like the Metro Express, New Supreme Court, ENT Hospital, and Social Housing Units stand as testaments to this partnership. The new runway and jetty at Agalega, developed with Indian assistance, played a crucial role in providing humanitarian aid post-Cyclone Chido, reinforcing India’s status as Mauritius’ “First Responder” in times of crisis.
Looking ahead, both nations have pledged to fast-track projects, including:
• The delivery of 100 electric buses and charging infrastructure
• Phase II of High Impact Community Development Projects
• Replacement of 100 km of water pipelines
• The redevelopment of the Ganga Talao Spiritual Sanctuary with Indian grant assistance
Building Human Capital: Education & Training Cooperation
India’s long-standing role in capacity building for Mauritius remains a cornerstone of their cooperation. The two leaders announced:
• Training 500 Mauritian civil servants in India over five years
• Strengthening links between institutions like the Civil Service College and India’s premier academies
• Expanding customized training for Mauritian diplomats at the Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service
• Collaboration in school curriculum development through NCERT
Space & Climate Action: A Leap Forward
Mauritius and India are set to expand their space cooperation, with plans to jointly develop and launch a satellite for Mauritius. India will also assist Mauritius in building a resilient multi-hazard emergency response system and enhancing climate monitoring through Earth observation applications.
Healthcare Innovations and AYUSH Expansion
India’s healthcare cooperation with Mauritius is set for a major boost, with the launch of:
• Digital Health Office System, aided by an Indian health specialist
• Expansion of Jan Aushadhi Kendras to provide affordable medicines
• Collaboration on drug de-addiction and rehabilitation programs
• The establishment of an AYUSH Centre of Excellence, reinforcing traditional medicine’s role in holistic healthcare
Economic Expansion: Trade & Investment Priorities
The Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA) has cemented India as Mauritius’ key economic ally, unlocking trade opportunities in sectors like fintech, ocean economy, and pharmaceuticals. The leaders agreed to:
• Hold the second High Power Joint Trade Committee meeting
• Facilitate trade settlements in Indian and Mauritian Rupees
• Promote Mauritius as India’s gateway to Africa
Digital Cooperation: India’s Tech for Mauritius’ Growth
Recognizing India’s expertise in digital governance, Mauritius sought India’s support for:
• Implementing e-judiciary systems
• Digitizing archives at the Mahatma Gandhi Institute
• Enhancing cybersecurity and fintech infrastructure
Strengthening Security & Maritime Collaboration
As strategic partners in the Indian Ocean Region, both nations reaffirmed their commitment to maritime security. India will continue providing Mauritius with:
• Defense equipment and joint maritime surveillance
• Assistance in securing Mauritius’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)
• Support in hydrographic surveys and port security enhancements
Multilateral Cooperation & the Chagos Islands Issue
India reaffirmed its full support to Mauritius on the Chagos issue, backing its sovereignty claims. The two leaders also pledged to collaborate on multilateral platforms, including the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), Colombo Security Conclave, and Global Biofuels Alliance.
Cultural & Diaspora Connections: Strengthening People-to-People Ties
The deep cultural and ancestral ties between India and Mauritius remain at the heart of their relationship. The leaders agreed to:
• Preserve indentured worker records at the Mahatma Gandhi Institute
• Promote tourism and religious exchanges, including visits to Char Dham and the Ramayana Trail
• Expand programs like Know India and Pravasi Bharatiya Divas to engage the Indian diaspora in Mauritius
The Way Ahead!
As Mauritius and India embark on this new chapter of their Strategic Partnership, their shared vision for growth, security, and prosperity sets a powerful example of international collaboration. Rooted in history and driven by ambition, this enduring bond is poised to reshape the future of the Indian Ocean Region for generations to come.
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