On Wednesday, India and Mauritius formalized an ‘enhanced strategic partnership’ by signing eight agreements aimed at increasing cooperation in trade, maritime security, and other sectors. Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced the MAHASAGAR plan for the Global South, emphasizing mutual growth and security. This partnership fosters collaboration on various projects while respecting Mauritius’ sovereignty issues regarding the Chagos Islands, ultimately aiming for shared prosperity and strengthened bilateral ties.

On Wednesday, India and Mauritius elevated their bilateral relationship to an ‘enhanced strategic partnership’, formalizing this new status with the signing of eight agreements aimed at advancing cooperation across various sectors, including trade and maritime security. During this occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi articulated an ambitious vision for the development of the Global South.

The agreements encompass initiatives to facilitate the utilization of national currencies in cross-border transactions, the sharing of maritime data, collaborative efforts in combating money laundering, and enhanced cooperation in the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector. PM Modi participated as the chief guest in Mauritius’ national day celebrations, which featured a contingent of Indian armed forces and support from the Indian Navy.

In conversations with Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, PM Modi introduced the conceptual framework named “MAHASAGAR”, standing for “Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions”, amidst the context of China’s expanding presence in the Indian Ocean. Both leaders expressed a mutual commitment to fostering a free and secure Indian Ocean, emphasizing the importance of defense cooperation and maritime security.

PM Modi reaffirmed, “We are committed to extend full cooperation in the security of Mauritius’ Exclusive Economic Zone.” He underscored the continuity of India’s maritime strategy, building upon the initial SAGAR policy established during his previous visit to Mauritius in 2015.

The new approach under MAHASAGAR focuses on trade, sustainable growth, and mutual security. PM Modi announced India’s commitment to support the construction of a new Parliament building in Mauritius as a gesture from “the Mother of Democracy”. He also highlighted India’s assistance in enhancing Mauritius’ Coast Guard capabilities, as well as establishing a police academy and a national maritime information sharing center.

In addressing cooperation on regional issues, PM Modi assured that India respects Mauritius’ sovereignty regarding the Chagos Islands and noted India’s ongoing support for Mauritius in negotiating a mutually beneficial agreement with the UK regarding sovereignty over the islands.

Efforts to bolster the existing partnership include developing various infrastructure projects in Mauritius, such as modernizing a water pipeline, and launching new community development initiatives valued at 500 million Mauritian rupees. Other projects already undertaken with India’s assistance include significant contributions to various sectors such as transportation, healthcare, and public infrastructure.

PM Modi also emphasized the cultural and people-to-people ties between the two nations, expressing intentions to collaborate on artificial intelligence and digital public infrastructure aimed at human development while facilitating cultural exchanges such as religious pilgrimages for Mauritians to India.

India’s longstanding relationship with Mauritius, underpinned by a shared heritage, makes it a crucial partner for the nation, especially with nearly 70% of its population being of Indian descent. India has steadily maintained its status as one of Mauritius’s largest trading partners since 2005.

The strengthening of ties between India and Mauritius through the establishment of an ‘enhanced strategic partnership’ highlights both countries’ commitment to collaborative growth and security. This partnership aims to bolster cooperation in critical sectors such as trade, maritime security, and cultural exchanges, while addressing regional stability issues with a comprehensive approach. Overall, this development is poised to yield significant benefits for both nations and their strategic interests in the Indian Ocean.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com

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