During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day state visit to Mauritius, the leaders of India and Mauritius, including Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, discussed a range of important economic, infrastructure, and bilateral cooperation measures aimed at further strengthening their long-standing partnership.
Key Highlights of the Discussions:
- Trade Settlements in Local Currencies
The two leaders agreed to facilitate trade settlements in local currencies — Indian Rupee and Mauritian Rupee — which will help to derisk bilateral trade and make transactions more efficient. This will be possible following the signing of an MoU on Local Currency Settlement by the central banks of both nations. - Economic Cooperation and Trade Enhancements
Both leaders discussed the need to explore the full potential of trade between India and Mauritius under the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA). They also agreed to hold the second session of the High Power Joint Trade Committee to further advance their economic cooperation and to continue promoting investments in sectors like ocean economy, pharmaceuticals, IT, and Fintech. - Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement
They agreed to ratify the Protocol on Amendment of the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement, in line with international standards to tackle treaty abuse, after the conclusion of ongoing discussions. - Infrastructure Development and Humanitarian Support
Mauritius Prime Minister Ramgoolam expressed his gratitude for India’s aid in numerous high-profile infrastructure projects like the India-Mauritius Metro Express, New Supreme Court Building, and the New ENT Hospital, among others. The Indian government has also assisted in the development of Agalega with a new runway and jetty, which was critical in providing emergency humanitarian assistance after Cyclone Chido. Prime Minister Ramgoolam also thanked India for its swift assistance during the cyclone, including the deployment of transport aircraft and ships to aid the Mauritius government’s rehabilitation efforts. - Future Projects and Collaboration
The two leaders underscored the significance of ongoing infrastructure projects like the Renal Transplant Unit, Forensic Science Laboratory, and National Archives and Library. They agreed to work towards the timely delivery of 100 electric buses and the associated charging infrastructure. Additionally, they discussed the replacement of 100 km of water pipelines in Mauritius, a project to be funded through an INR-denominated Line of Credit from India. - Cultural and Spiritual Projects
The leaders also agreed to finalize discussions on the new Parliament building in Mauritius, which will be built with India’s grant assistance, and the redevelopment of the Ganga Talao Spiritual Sanctuary, which holds great cultural significance. - Mauritius as a Gateway to Africa
Prime Minister Ramgoolam highlighted Mauritius’s strategic position and its cultural ties to Africa. He urged Indian companies to view Mauritius as a gateway to Africa, particularly in light of its inclusion in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). - India as Mauritius’ Development Partner
Both leaders reaffirmed that India has been the leading development partner for Mauritius since its independence, contributing significantly to the country’s infrastructure and developmental needs.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit also saw him attend Mauritius’ National Day celebrations as the Chief Guest, an honor he first received in 2015, and engage with the Indian community in Mauritius.
The visit marked a significant milestone in furthering the strategic partnership between India and Mauritius, building on their shared cultural, historical, and economic ties for the long-term benefit of both nations.