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Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Mauritius, coinciding with its National Day celebrations and a meeting with newly elected Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam, signifies a renewed commitment to the India-Mauritius strategic partnership. The visit, marking a decade since Modi’s previous engagement with the island nation, aimed at bolstering existing ties and initiating fresh avenues for economic and developmental cooperation. The relationship between India and Mauritius is rooted in deep historical and cultural connections, with over 70% of the Mauritian population being of Indian descent. This shared heritage forms a strong foundation for bilateral relations, but Modi's visit underscored the strategic importance of Mauritius in the evolving geopolitical landscape of the Indian Ocean region. Ramgoolam's previous tenure as Prime Minister of Mauritius from 2005 to 2014 provided a period of significant collaboration between the two nations. Even during the challenging times of India’s stringent COVID-19 lockdown, the Indian government extended crucial support by facilitating Ramgoolam’s medical evacuation to India, demonstrating the strength and reliability of the bond between the two leaders and their respective countries. This gesture of goodwill was reciprocated with a warm welcome for Modi as a guest of honor at Mauritius' National Day celebrations, during which he was also conferred with the highest national award, further solidifying the mutual respect and admiration that underpin the relationship. Beyond the cultural and historical ties, the visit's primary focus centered on strategic priorities. India views Mauritius as a crucial player in the Indian Ocean region, an important partner in Africa, and a vital link to the Global South. Strengthening ties with Mauritius is therefore integral to India's broader strategic objectives in the region, particularly in light of growing geopolitical competition and evolving security dynamics. This strategic imperative is reflected in the various initiatives and commitments announced during the visit, which are designed to enhance defence cooperation, boost economic ties, and support Mauritius' development agenda. The upgrading of strategic ties and the commitment to increased defence cooperation between India and Mauritius are particularly noteworthy. This aspect of the partnership is critical for ensuring maritime security and stability in the Indian Ocean region, which is increasingly becoming a focal point for geopolitical competition. The Indian Ocean is a vital sea lane for global trade and energy flows, and maintaining its security is essential for both India and Mauritius. The enhanced defence cooperation between the two countries will likely involve joint exercises, intelligence sharing, and capacity building, aimed at strengthening their ability to respond to maritime threats and challenges. In addition to defence cooperation, India announced several significant economic initiatives aimed at further deepening the economic partnership between the two countries. These initiatives include facilitating bilateral trade in national currencies, providing support for the construction of a new Mauritius parliament building, and extending a ₹487 crore credit facility to improve water infrastructure. These projects build upon previous Indian-led development initiatives in Mauritius, such as the construction of an airstrip and jetty in the Agalega islands, the Mauritius Metro rail project, and the New Supreme Court Building. These investments reflect India's commitment to supporting Mauritius' economic development and improving the quality of life for its citizens. The move to facilitate bilateral trade in national currencies is particularly significant, as it has the potential to reduce reliance on the US dollar and promote greater economic autonomy for both countries. This initiative is in line with India's broader efforts to promote the use of national currencies in trade with its partners, which is seen as a way to reduce vulnerability to external shocks and promote greater economic stability. The geopolitical implications of Modi's visit extend beyond the immediate bilateral relationship between India and Mauritius. The visit also touched upon the sensitive issue of the Chagos Archipelago, a group of islands in the Indian Ocean that are currently administered by the United Kingdom but are claimed by Mauritius. Prime Minister Ramgoolam has expressed a desire to renegotiate Mauritius' agreement with the UK regarding sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago, which is home to a US military base in Diego Garcia. India has historically supported Mauritius' claim to the Chagos Archipelago, and during the visit, Modi reiterated India's full support for Mauritius in whatever course it chooses to pursue on this issue. While India helped broker the previous deal under Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth’s government, it has assured Mr. Ramgoolam of its full support in whatever course he chooses. This stance is significant, as it underscores India's commitment to supporting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of its partners, even when it involves navigating complex geopolitical sensitivities. India's position on the Chagos Archipelago issue is also seen as a reflection of its broader commitment to decolonization and its support for the aspirations of developing countries. In addition to the issue of the Chagos Archipelago, India is also closely monitoring China's growing footprint in the Indian Ocean region. China's strategic partnership with Mauritius includes a free trade agreement and bilateral trade worth $1.1 billion, which is double that of India-Mauritius trade at $554 million. The PLA Navy's increased presence in the Indian Ocean has also raised concerns in India, prompting Modi to announce the MAHASAGAR doctrine, which emphasizes India's commitment to maritime security and regional cooperation in the Indian Ocean region. The MAHASAGAR doctrine is a key element of India's maritime strategy, which aims to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region through enhanced cooperation with regional partners. This doctrine emphasizes the importance of safeguarding sea lanes of communication, combating piracy and terrorism, and promoting sustainable development of marine resources. Modi's announcement of the MAHASAGAR doctrine during his visit to Mauritius underscored India's commitment to playing a leading role in ensuring the security and stability of the Indian Ocean region. At a time when shifting US foreign policy threatens the international rules-based order, disrupts trade, and risks fragmenting global alliances into rigid spheres of influence, Modi's visit to Mauritius has underscored India's commitment to strengthening regional ties and reinforcing partnerships with trusted friends. India's approach to foreign policy is characterized by a commitment to multilateralism, dialogue, and peaceful resolution of disputes. By strengthening its partnerships with countries like Mauritius, India is seeking to promote a more stable and prosperous region, and to contribute to a more balanced and equitable global order.
The enduring relationship between India and Mauritius is a testament to shared values, historical connections, and strategic alignment. The strategic dimension of this partnership is increasingly vital, especially considering the evolving dynamics within the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The IOR is experiencing a surge in geopolitical competition, with various nations vying for influence. China’s growing presence in the region, evidenced by its increased naval activities and infrastructure investments in neighboring countries, presents a significant challenge for India. This heightened activity necessitates a proactive approach from India, reinforcing its strategic partnerships and emphasizing its commitment to regional stability. India's engagement with Mauritius serves as a cornerstone of its broader strategy to maintain a secure and balanced IOR. The MAHASAGAR doctrine, articulated by Prime Minister Modi, underscores India's vision of a free, open, and inclusive maritime domain. This doctrine promotes collaboration with regional partners to address common maritime challenges, including piracy, terrorism, and environmental degradation. By bolstering its defense cooperation with Mauritius, India aims to enhance its maritime surveillance capabilities and ensure the safety and security of vital sea lanes. The strategic importance of Mauritius lies not only in its geographical location but also in its role as a gateway to Africa. As an African nation with strong historical and cultural ties to India, Mauritius serves as a bridge connecting the two regions. India's economic and developmental assistance to Mauritius is geared towards promoting sustainable development and enhancing its infrastructure. Projects such as the Mauritius Metro rail, the New Supreme Court Building, and the airstrip and jetty in Agalega islands are tangible examples of India's commitment to supporting Mauritius's growth. These projects not only contribute to Mauritius's economic progress but also strengthen the bonds of friendship between the two nations. Furthermore, India's support for Mauritius' claim over the Chagos Archipelago reflects its commitment to upholding international law and promoting the principles of self-determination. The Chagos Archipelago issue is a sensitive matter with significant legal and historical complexities. India's unwavering support for Mauritius's sovereignty over the islands underscores its dedication to justice and fairness in international relations. India's economic engagement with Mauritius is also evolving to reflect the changing global economic landscape. The move towards bilateral trade in national currencies is a significant step towards reducing reliance on the US dollar and promoting greater economic independence. This initiative aligns with India's broader efforts to de-dollarize its trade relationships and foster greater economic resilience. By promoting the use of the Indian Rupee in trade with Mauritius, India aims to reduce transaction costs and enhance the competitiveness of its exports. The economic benefits of this initiative are mutual, as it allows both countries to insulate themselves from currency fluctuations and external economic shocks. The focus on infrastructure development in Mauritius is also a key element of India's economic partnership. The credit facility extended by India for improving water infrastructure is crucial for addressing the challenges of water scarcity and ensuring access to clean water for the Mauritian population. This project not only improves the quality of life for Mauritians but also contributes to sustainable economic growth. The construction of the new parliament building in Mauritius is another significant project that symbolizes India's commitment to supporting democratic institutions and good governance. This project reflects India's belief in the importance of strong and accountable institutions for promoting economic development and social progress.
Looking ahead, the India-Mauritius relationship is poised to deepen further, driven by shared strategic interests and a common vision for the Indian Ocean region. The challenges and opportunities in the IOR require closer cooperation and a coordinated approach to address common threats and promote sustainable development. India's commitment to strengthening its partnership with Mauritius is a reflection of its broader vision for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region. The evolving geopolitical landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for India and Mauritius. The rise of China as a major economic and military power has altered the balance of power in the region, necessitating a proactive and nuanced approach from India. By strengthening its partnerships with like-minded countries such as Mauritius, India aims to maintain a stable and balanced regional order. The focus on maritime security is likely to remain a key priority for both India and Mauritius. The increasing incidence of piracy, maritime terrorism, and illegal fishing activities in the IOR underscores the need for enhanced maritime surveillance and cooperation. India's efforts to build capacity and provide training to the Mauritian coast guard are crucial for enhancing its ability to patrol its maritime borders and protect its marine resources. The economic dimension of the India-Mauritius relationship is also expected to grow in significance. The move towards greater economic integration, facilitated by initiatives such as the bilateral trade agreement and the promotion of trade in national currencies, is likely to lead to increased trade and investment flows between the two countries. India's expertise in sectors such as information technology, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy can be leveraged to support Mauritius' economic diversification and sustainable development goals. The cultural and people-to-people ties between India and Mauritius will continue to serve as a strong foundation for the bilateral relationship. The large Indian diaspora in Mauritius plays a vital role in fostering cultural exchanges and promoting mutual understanding. Efforts to strengthen educational and cultural linkages between the two countries are likely to enhance the bonds of friendship and cooperation. In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi's visit to Mauritius reaffirmed India's commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with a trusted friend and partner in the Indian Ocean region. The visit underscored the importance of shared values, historical connections, and strategic alignment in shaping the bilateral relationship. As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, India and Mauritius are well-positioned to work together to address common challenges and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the region. The India-Mauritius relationship serves as a model for South-South cooperation and a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship and mutual respect.
The Indo-Mauritian connection, woven from the threads of history, culture, and shared strategic interests, emerges as a beacon of stability and cooperation in the increasingly complex and contested landscape of the Indian Ocean region. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Mauritius was not merely a diplomatic formality; it was a powerful statement of intent, signaling India's unwavering commitment to fortifying its ties with a trusted partner. The visit served as a platform to launch new economic and developmental initiatives, further cementing the bond between the two nations. Central to this partnership is the recognition of Mauritius's pivotal role as a key player in the Indian Ocean, a vital link to Africa, and a significant voice within the Global South. India's strategic engagement with Mauritius is underpinned by a multifaceted approach encompassing enhanced defense cooperation, robust economic partnerships, and unwavering support for Mauritius's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The decision to upgrade strategic ties and commit to increased defense cooperation reflects the shared understanding of the growing security challenges in the Indian Ocean region. As the region becomes increasingly susceptible to maritime threats, including piracy, terrorism, and illegal fishing, the need for enhanced maritime surveillance and security cooperation becomes paramount. India's support for Mauritius's defense capabilities is not merely an act of goodwill; it is a strategic imperative aimed at safeguarding vital sea lanes and promoting regional stability. The economic initiatives announced during Prime Minister Modi's visit further underscore India's commitment to supporting Mauritius's sustainable development goals. The provision of a substantial credit facility for improving water infrastructure addresses a critical need for the Mauritian population, ensuring access to clean water and promoting public health. The construction of a new parliament building, a symbol of democracy and good governance, reflects India's belief in the importance of strong and accountable institutions for fostering economic and social progress. Beyond the immediate economic benefits, India's support for Mauritius's development aspirations is guided by a long-term vision of creating a more prosperous and equitable region. This vision recognizes that sustainable development is essential for addressing the root causes of instability and promoting lasting peace. The Indo-Mauritian partnership also extends to the realm of cultural exchange and people-to-people connections. With over 70% of the Mauritian population tracing their ancestry to India, the cultural ties between the two nations are deep and enduring. Efforts to promote educational exchanges, cultural events, and tourism are essential for strengthening these bonds and fostering mutual understanding. The Indian diaspora in Mauritius serves as a bridge connecting the two nations, playing a vital role in promoting cultural exchange and facilitating economic partnerships. The diaspora's contributions to Mauritius's economic and social development are invaluable, and their role in fostering closer ties between the two countries should be further recognized and supported. The Indo-Mauritian relationship is not without its challenges. The growing presence of China in the Indian Ocean region presents a significant strategic challenge for India. China's economic and military influence in the region is expanding rapidly, and India needs to take proactive steps to counter this influence. Strengthening its partnerships with like-minded countries such as Mauritius is essential for maintaining a stable and balanced regional order. The Chagos Archipelago issue also poses a complex challenge for India. While India has historically supported Mauritius's claim over the islands, it also needs to balance its relations with the United Kingdom, which currently administers the archipelago. Finding a just and equitable resolution to the Chagos Archipelago issue is essential for promoting regional stability and upholding international law.