India Reaffirms Strong Ties with Mauritius During Jaishankar’s Visit

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reaffirmed India's commitment to supporting Mauritius during his visit to Port Louis. He highlighted the longstanding friendship and numerous bilateral projects. The visit underscored the importance of India-Mauritius relations in areas such as development, defense, and economic cooperation.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reaffirmed India's unwavering support for Mauritius' progress during his two-day official visit to Port Louis. He expressed pride in partnering with Mauritius on its journey towards modernity at several project inaugurations and the exchange of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two nations in the presence of Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth.

Marking his first bilateral visit to Port Louis after his re-appointment under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government, Jaishankar emphasized the robust and multifaceted partnership between India and Mauritius. He highlighted the depth of bilateral ties, underscored India's commitment to the relationship, and conveyed greetings from Prime Minister Modi to Jugnauth, noting the significant attendance at Modi's swearing-in last month.

During discussions with Prime Minister Jugnauth, Jaishankar covered a range of issues including development partnerships, defense, maritime cooperation, economic trade, and people-to-people linkages. He reiterated India's support under four key foreign policy approaches: Neighbourhood First, Vision SAGAR, Africa Forward Initiative, and commitment to the Global South. He also emphasized historical and kinship bonds, remembering President Draupadi Murmu's visit to Mauritius.

Jaishankar announced the handover of the first Overseas Citizen of India cards to seventh-generation Indian-origin Mauritians, reflecting the special bilateral ties. He also highlighted various community development projects, including the inauguration of the Mediclinic in Grand Bois and the upcoming inauguration of the Civil Service College in Moka. The visit also showcased cooperation in space technology and maritime collaboration.

In a significant move, India will support the Mahatma Gandhi Institute in digitizing records of indentured workers and providing training to its staff. The term of the ICCR Chair in Sanskrit and Indian Philosophy will also be renewed. Jaishankar reaffirmed India's position on the Chagos issue, supporting Mauritius' sovereignty and territorial integrity. His visit follows Prime Minister Jugnauth's attendance at Modi's swearing-in ceremony.

(With inputs from agencies.)