Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Mauritius reinforced India’s commitment to support the sovereignty of Mauritius over the Chagos archipelago and emphasized the importance of a secure Indian Ocean. Key agreements were made on trade, cultural exchanges, and maritime security, including training programs and local currency utilization.
During his two-day state visit to Mauritius, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the shared commitment between India and Mauritius to maintain a “free, open, secure, and safe” Indian Ocean. In a speech alongside Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, he reiterated India’s unwavering support for Mauritius’s sovereignty over the Chagos archipelago, following a recent agreement ensuring the transfer of control from the United Kingdom to Mauritius.
Modi announced significant plans for cooperation, including training 500 Mauritian civil servants in India over five years, facilitating trade in local currencies, and enhancing defense and maritime security collaboration. He expressed India’s commitment to aid the establishment of a Police Academy and a National Maritime Information Sharing Centre in Mauritius while asserting India’s support regarding the management of the Exclusive Economic Zone following the Chagos negotiations.
The Exclusive Economic Zone gained attention during talks between the U.K. and Mauritius, culminating in an agreement granting sovereignty over the Chagos islands. Modi also affirmed support for Mauritian cultural initiatives, including pilgrimage assistance and infrastructure projects worth 500 million Mauritian rupees under their partnership.
The two nations finalized eight memoranda of understanding, including agreements to enhance trade using local currencies. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri detailed the objective of promoting local currency transactions, enhancing trade ties, and setting up an Indian rupee clearing center in Mauritius and other COMESA nations.
The signing included agreements aimed at improving maritime security, including sharing white shipping information which will enhance awareness and safety in trade, while preventing illegal activities. Moreover, Modi was honored with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean, showcasing the strengthening bonds between the two nations.
In summary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Mauritius marked a significant advancement in bilateral relations, with a focus on maritime security, cultural ties, and economic cooperation. The agreements signed will facilitate training, trade, and mutual support regarding the Chagos archipelago. The collaborative efforts underscore the mutual commitment to a secure Indian Ocean, reflecting the strategic partnership between India and Mauritius.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
