During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Mauritius, he emphasized the need for a “free, open, secure, and safe” Indian Ocean and India’s support for Mauritius’s sovereignty over the Chagos archipelago. The visit also resulted in agreements to enhance cooperation in defense, trade using local currency, and cultural exchanges, solidifying the strategic partnership between the two nations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of a “free, open, secure, and safe” Indian Ocean during his recent state visit to Mauritius. Delivering a speech alongside Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, Mr. Modi reaffirmed India’s steadfast support for Mauritius’ sovereignty over the Chagos archipelago, highlighting an agreement reached last year in which the UK committed to transferring sovereignty after decades of dispute.
During his address, Mr. Modi announced training for five hundred Mauritian civil servants in India over the next five years and discussed the significance of defense cooperation and maritime security as fundamental pillars of the strategic partnership. He assured that India would provide assistance to Mauritius’s Coast Guard and aid in the establishment of a Police Academy and the National Maritime Information Sharing Centre.
Mr. Modi referenced the importance of the Exclusive Economic Zone of Mauritius, which became a focal point during negotiations concerning the Chagos Islands. An agreement reached on October 3, 2024, confirms Mauritius’ sovereignty over the Chagos Islands and allows the operation of the Diego Garcia military base for the next 99 years. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri reiterated India’s unwavering support for Mauritius’ claims regarding the Chagos archipelago prior to the visit.
Acknowledging the cultural ties between the nations, Mr. Modi announced support for Mauritian travelers seeking to embark on the Char Dham Yatra and the Ramayana Trail, alongside initiating new development projects worth 500 million Mauritian rupees as part of their bilateral partnership. Furthermore, the two nations finalized eight memoranda of understanding, including an agreement facilitating local currency trade settlements.
Mr. Misri explained that the objective of the local currency agreement is to enhance trade and business activities by promoting the use of local currencies for transactions and establishing an Indian rupee clearing center in Mauritius. The Reserve Bank of India and the Bank of Mauritius are tasked with implementing this agreement to optimize benefits.
Additionally, the countries signed seven other agreements, including one on the exchange of white shipping information. This agreement is poised to significantly improve Mauritius’ maritime security and facilitate real-time data sharing to safeguard trade against illegal activities.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Mauritius underscores the strong commitment between the two nations to collaborate on maritime security and economic cooperation. By reaffirming India’s support for Mauritius’s sovereignty over the Chagos archipelago and enhancing bilateral ties through cultural and economic agreements, both countries aim to foster mutual growth and security in the Indian Ocean region.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
