Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Mauritius on March 11, 2025, for a two-day state visit to attend national day celebrations and engage with local leadership. He received a ceremonial welcome and expressed hopes for strengthened bilateral relations through agreements on trade and cooperation. Modi aims to connect with the Indian community and inaugurate key projects supported by India.
On March 11, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made his arrival in Mauritius, marking the beginning of a two-day state visit. He received a ceremonial welcome to attend the nation’s national day celebrations as the chief guest and engage with key leaders of the country. Notable dignitaries, including Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam, warmly welcomed PM Modi upon his arrival with a traditional garland.
Accompanying PM Ramgoolam were officials such as the Deputy Prime Minister, Chief Justice of Mauritius, Speaker of the National Assembly, and various other leaders. Approximately 200 dignitaries, including Members of Parliament, Members of the Legislative Assembly, diplomatic representatives, and religious leaders, were present for the early morning welcome.
During the visit, several agreements are anticipated to be signed, focusing on capacity building, trade partnerships, and combating cross-border financial crimes. Prior to this visit, PM Modi expressed his hope for a “new and bright” chapter in Indo-Mauritian relations. He plans to hold discussions with the president, prime minister, and other political leaders of Mauritius.
Furthermore, PM Modi aims to connect with the local Indian community and inaugurate a civil service college and an area health centre, both supported by Indian aid. In his pre-departure statement, he emphasized the commitment to deepen partnerships and enhance the friendship between the two nations for mutual prosperity.
A contingent from the Indian armed forces is scheduled to join the celebrations, which will also feature an Indian Navy warship and the Akash Ganga skydiving team from the Indian Air Force. PM Modi stated that Mauritius serves as a close maritime neighbor and a strategic partner within the Indian Ocean, noting the historical, geographical, and cultural ties shared by the two nations.
He highlighted the significance of mutual trust, democratic values, and cultural diversity as pillars of the relationship. Notably, PM Modi last visited Mauritius in 2015, and India remains one of the largest trading partners of the nation, where around 70% of the population is of Indian descent. Ahead of the visit, India reiterated its support for Mauritius in negotiations concerning the Chagos Islands with the United Kingdom, a matter expected to arise during discussions with PM Ramgoolam.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Mauritius reinforces the longstanding ties between India and Mauritius, showcasing cooperation in various sectors while strengthening the cultural and historical connections shared between the two nations. As they engage in discussions on critical issues and partnerships, the visit signifies a commitment to enhancing mutual prosperity and strategic collaboration in the region.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
