PM Modi embarks on state visit to Mauritius, focus on defence, trade and culture

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Mauritius for a two-day State Visit, underscoring the deep-rooted ties between the two nations. His visit coincides with the 57th National Day of Mauritius, where he will serve as the Chief Guest at the celebrations. This marks his second visit to the island nation as Prime Minister, his last being in 2015.

Ahead of his departure on Monday night, Modi highlighted the importance of the trip. “At the invitation of my friend, Prime Minister Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, I am embarking on a two-day State Visit to Mauritius to participate in the celebrations of the 57th National Day of Mauritius,” he said. He also described Mauritius as “a close maritime neighbour, a key partner in the Indian Ocean, and a gateway to the African Continent.”

Boosting Bilateral Relations

The visit comes at a crucial time, following the formation of a new government in Mauritius led by Prime Minister Ramgoolam, who assumed office after the November 2024 elections. According to Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, “The visit… will therefore provide an occasion for early engagement between the two leaders. It will come right in the beginning of a fresh term of office for Prime Minister Ramgoolam and of course, Prime Minister Modi also into his third term of office.”

The two countries are expected to sign agreements covering maritime security, financial crime prevention, and training of civil servants. These deals aim to further cement India’s role in the economic and strategic development of Mauritius.

Cultural and Strategic Engagements

Upon arrival in Port Louis, Modi's itinerary includes visits to historical sites such as the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, where he will pay tribute to former Prime Ministers Seewoosagur Ramgoolam and Anerood Jugnauth. He will also hold discussions with Mauritius’ new President, Dharambeer Gokhool, alongside key bilateral meetings with Prime Minister Ramgoolam and other political leaders.

India’s contribution to Mauritius’ development will be on full display as Modi and Ramgoolam jointly inaugurate several projects funded by India. These include the Civil Service College and the Area Health Centre. In addition, they will oversee the signing of multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at fostering cooperation in trade, small and medium enterprises, and governance.

A Warm Welcome and Strong Cultural Ties

Mauritius has gone all out to welcome the Indian Prime Minister. Streets are lined with Indian and Mauritian flags, while cultural performances have been meticulously rehearsed. The Director of the Mahatma Gandhi Institute, Dr Veedotma Koonjal, described the occasion as a moment of pride. “It is a huge occasion for us. We are very happy to welcome the Prime Minister to Mauritius. It is a privilege to see him here for the second time. We are engaged in his welcome programme,” she told ANI.

Performers have been preparing for over ten days, with traditional Indian dance forms such as Kathak, Bharatnatyam, and Kuchipudi included in the showcase. “It took us around 10 days to prepare. The performance is a mixture of Kathak, Bharatnatyam, and Kuchipudi. These dance styles are taught in schools, too, in Mauritius... We are very excited and proud to perform in front of PM Modi,” said one of the performers, Swayamprabha.

Strategic Partnership for the Future

The significance of India-Mauritius relations extends beyond history and culture. Mauritius’ Foreign Minister, Dhananjay Ramful, noted that the relationship, dating back to 1948, is now being reoriented towards a strategic partnership. “We are talking about a strategic partnership nowadays between Mauritius and India,” he told ANI, adding that India has been a key development partner over the years.

“India has stood shoulder to shoulder with us in completing these initiatives,” Ramful emphasised, highlighting India's extensive support for infrastructure and governance projects in Mauritius.

Strengthening Ties in the Indian Ocean Region

Modi’s visit also carries strategic significance in the Indian Ocean region. India has been expanding its maritime security partnerships to counter emerging threats and ensure stability. An Indian Naval Ship has docked in Port Louis to mark the occasion, and a marching contingent from the Indian Navy, along with an Indian Navy helicopter and the Akash Ganga Skydiving Team from the Indian Air Force, will participate in the celebrations.

As Modi himself stated before departing, “I look forward to the opportunity to engage the Mauritius leadership to elevate our partnership in all its facets and strengthen our enduring friendship for the progress and prosperity of our peoples, as well as for security and development in the Indian Ocean Region, as part of our Vision SAGAR.”

His engagements over the next two days will shape the next chapter of India-Mauritius relations, reinforcing economic ties, enhancing security cooperation, and celebrating a shared cultural heritage.