Reaffirming the strategic depth of India-Mauritius relations, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has described Mauritius as an "integral part" of India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and a crucial partner in the country’s engagement with the Global South.
The remarks came during a special briefing in Varanasi, where Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam is currently on an eight-day state visit, his first overseas bilateral visit in his present term.
"Mauritius PM Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam is on an eight-day visit to India. Mauritius is an integral part of our 'Neighbourhood First' policy... Mauritius is also an important part of the commitment to the Global South," said Misri, highlighting the broad contours of the partnership. "It is a partnership evolved in diverse areas, and evidence of it can be seen in the number of MoUs signed between India and Mauritius."
The visit reflects India’s continued diplomatic focus on island nations and its deepening developmental partnership with Africa and the Indian Ocean region.
During a joint press briefing following his bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Ramgoolam acknowledged India's steadfast support, calling it a "longstanding and generous" partnership that has significantly benefited Mauritius.
"Over the years, India, through its various governments, has accompanied Mauritius in its journey towards progress... Before our independence, India had a High Commission in Mauritius," he stated. "We have benefited from India's generous assistance and expertise in key sectors of national development, including but not limited to health, education, capacity building, renewable energy, infrastructure and maritime security. India's timely support in these areas continues to make a tangible difference to improve the quality of life of the Mauritians."
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A centrepiece of the visit is the announcement of a high-quality Ayurvedic Centre in Mauritius, supported by India. "The Ayurvedic centre will also be an exceptional one, thanks to your blessing, Prime Minister," said Ramgoolam, describing the project as part of a wider “special economic package” covering health, education, energy, and infrastructure.
Ramgoolam also praised the warmth of the welcome received upon arrival in Varanasi, noting, “Both my wife and I were amazed at the welcome that we received. I believe no other Prime Minister has ever received such a welcome. I'm glad it's in your constituency, and I now understand why you get elected in such huge numbers."
Earlier, the visiting leader was received with full ceremonial honours by Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri also paid a courtesy call on Ramgoolam prior to the bilateral talks.
Ramgoolam had last visited India in May 2014, as the only non-SAARC leader invited to the swearing-in ceremony of the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers. His current visit, from 9 to 16 September, signals renewed momentum in Indo-Mauritian relations, with a strong emphasis on development cooperation and regional maritime engagement.
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