Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s recent three-day visit to Mauritius marked an important milestone in the bilateral relations between India and the island nation.
This visit is particularly significant as it comes soon after the formation of the new government in Mauritius, led by Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam.
The visit focused on deepening the enduring ties between the two nations, which are rooted in shared history and cultural connections. During his engagements, Misri underscored the importance of the people-centred development partnership that has been a hallmark of India-Mauritius relations.
In a key meeting, Misri interacted with Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, former Prime Minister and leader of the Mouvement Socialiste Militant Party.
Discussions during the meeting revolved around the special nature of the relationship between the two countries and the people-focused approach that defines their development initiatives.
The High Commission of India in Mauritius shared updates on this interaction through social media, highlighting its significance in strengthening bilateral cooperation.
Upon his arrival in Mauritius, Misri was warmly welcomed by the High Commission, which expressed its enthusiasm for the visit. They acknowledged the deep and historic ties between the two countries, emphasising the importance of the engagement in fostering closer collaboration.
As part of his visit, Misri participated in the “Ek Ped Maa ke Naam” initiative, showcasing India’s commitment to environmental sustainability. He planted a Norfolk Island Pine sapling, symbolising efforts towards a greener and healthier future.
This gesture also reaffirmed India’s dedication to sustainable development, aligning with global environmental goals.
The ties between India and Mauritius extend far beyond diplomatic exchanges. Mauritius, with its population of 1.2 million, shares a unique connection with India, as nearly 70 per cent of its residents are of Indian origin.
This shared heritage has served as a foundation for strong cultural and economic partnerships.
One of the notable initiatives that has strengthened these bonds is the introduction of a visa-free regime for Indian tourists in 2004. This policy has encouraged greater interaction between the people of both nations.
Additionally, a special provision for Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards has been made for Mauritians of Indian descent, further reinforcing this cultural bridge.
Cultural and educational exchanges have also played a pivotal role in the partnership. Mauritius has become a preferred destination for Indian tourists, with approximately 80,000 visiting annually.
The presence of over 2,000 Indian students pursuing higher education in Mauritius in fields such as medicine and business is another testament to the close ties.
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