Port Louis [Mauritius], March 12: In a significant step towards deepening bilateral ties, Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam announced on Wednesday that he and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have agreed to further strengthen their relationship through the Mauritius-India Joint Vision Document for an Enhanced Strategic Partnership.
During a joint press conference, Ramgoolam emphasized that their discussions were aimed at taking Mauritius-India relations to the next level. “We had constructive discussions on how to elevate our bilateral ties, and I am pleased to announce that PM Modi and I have agreed to strengthen our relations with the Mauritius-India Joint Vision Document,” he said.
The two leaders also shared a vision to enhance cooperation across a wide range of sectors. “Our shared vision is to increase our collaboration in existing and emerging fields such as space research, AI, digital health, ocean economy, pharmaceuticals, ICT, FinTech, and cyber security,” Ramgoolam added.
Ramgoolam also expressed his gratitude for PM Modi’s presence at Mauritius’ National Day celebrations, marking the 57th anniversary of their independence. “PM Modi’s presence on this momentous occasion reflects the unique and special relationship between our two countries,” he stated.
PM Modi, in his address, reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting Mauritius in significant national projects. “Today, Prime Minister Ramgoolam and I have decided to elevate the India-Mauritius partnership to the status of ‘Enhanced Strategic Partnership’. India will cooperate in building the new Parliament House in Mauritius. This will be a gift from the ‘Mother of Democracy’ to Mauritius,” Modi said.
He also extended his congratulations to the people of Mauritius on their National Day, expressing his honor at being invited as the Chief Guest. “On behalf of 1.4 billion Indians, I congratulate the people of Mauritius. Our nations are connected not only by the Indian Ocean but also by our shared culture and values. We are each other’s partners in the pursuit of economic and social progress,” Modi remarked.
PM Modi highlighted the importance of Mauritius as a key partner for India, noting that in 2015, the foundation for the Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) initiative was laid there. He expanded on this vision, introducing the concept of ‘MAHASAGAR’—Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.
“Whether it is the Global South, the Indian Ocean, or Africa, Mauritius is a key partner for us. Ten years ago, the foundation for Vision SAGAR was laid here, and today, we are advancing it to MAHASAGAR, which includes trade for development, capacity building for sustainable growth, and mutual security for a shared future,” PM Modi explained.