India and Mauritius have forged an enhanced strategic partnership, signing eight agreements to bolster cooperation in trade and maritime security. Key initiatives include currency trade facilitation, maritime data sharing, and development assistance projects. PM Modi’s new vision for the Global South, termed MAHASAGAR, aims to promote mutual security and sustainable growth amid regional challenges.
On Wednesday, India and Mauritius enhanced their bilateral relations, establishing an ‘enhanced strategic partnership’ and signing eight agreements to strengthen cooperation in key areas such as trade and maritime security. This announcement coincided with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s presentation of a new vision aimed at fostering development in the Global South.
The signed agreements facilitate the use of national currencies for cross-border transactions, support maritime data sharing, combat money laundering, and enhance collaboration within the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector. On the second and final day of his visit, PM Modi also attended Mauritius’s national day celebrations as the chief guest, accompanied by an Indian armed forces contingent and a Indian Navy warship.
During discussions with Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, PM Modi revealed India’s new initiative for the Global South, titled “MAHASAGAR,” which stands for “Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.” This policy was introduced in response to China’s increasing influence in the Indian Ocean, affirming the mutual objective of a free, open, secure, and safe Indian Ocean.
PM Modi emphasized the significance of defense cooperation and maritime security within their strategic partnership. He affirmed India’s commitment to assist in securing Mauritius’s Exclusive Economic Zone, which is vital for the country’s maritime interests. The new MAHASAGAR approach builds upon the prior SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) policy established during his previous visit in 2015.
The new strategy will emphasize trade for development, sustainable growth capacity building, and mutual security. PM Modi mentioned that this partnership would involve technology sharing, concessional loans, and grants. He also pledged India’s assistance in constructing a new Parliament building for Mauritius, reflecting its status as the ‘Mother of Democracy.’
Regarding strategic cooperation, PM Modi confirmed India’s readiness to help Mauritius bolster its Coast Guard capabilities and establish a police academy and maritime information sharing center. Cooperation in white shipping, blue economy, and hydrography will also be strengthened while respecting Mauritius’ sovereignty concerning the Chagos Islands.
India has been instrumental in helping Mauritius negotiate a favorable agreement with the United Kingdom regarding the Chagos Islands, especially after the UK signaled its willingness to hand over sovereignty in a historic agreement. However, the new government of Mauritius has called for the resumption of negotiations over this matter.
PM Modi reiterated the importance of the enhanced status for India-Mauritius relations, stating, “We are each other’s partners on the path of economic and social progress,” highlighting mutual support during crises such as natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted the significant strides made if the past decade, enhancing development cooperation and building capacity.
He also introduced a range of development projects for Mauritius, including the modernization of a water pipeline and new community development projects worth 500 million Mauritian rupees. Furthermore, both nations agreed to conduct mutual trade in local currencies. Various India-assisted initiatives were also highlighted, such as infrastructure projects aimed at improving quality of life and health in Mauritius.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the cultural connections between the two nations, pledging cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence and digital public infrastructure to promote human development. Additionally, opportunities for pilgrimage to India, including the Char Dham Yatra and Ramayana trail, will be made available for Mauritian citizens. The enduring and special bond between India and Mauritius is underscored by the large Indian-origin population, which constitutes nearly 70% of the country’s residents. Since 2005, India has consistently been a foremost trading partner for Mauritius.
The recent elevation of ties between India and Mauritius exemplifies a strengthened partnership aimed at comprehensive cooperation in various sectors such as trade, security, and development. The agreements signed and initiatives proposed signal a commitment to mutual growth and collaboration, particularly in the face of external challenges. With a focus on strategic cooperation and cultural connections, this partnership is poised to benefit both nations substantially moving forward.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
