India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri concluded his inaugural official visit to Mauritius on December 22, 2024, during which he emphasized India’s unwavering commitment to the developmental aspirations of the island nation.
The visit came shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam on his electoral victory on November 11, 2024. This strategic engagement showcases the significance India accords to its relations with Mauritius, especially following the recent elections.
During his stay from December 20 to 22, Misri met with several high-ranking officials including Prime Minister Ramgoolam, President Dharambeer Gokhool, Deputy Prime Minister Paul Berenger, and Foreign Minister Dhananjay Ramful. Throughout these discussions, the Foreign Secretary reiterated India’s dedication to the development, progress, and prosperity of Mauritius.
"The Foreign Secretary has sought guidance to strengthen the special and close partnership between the two countries," stated the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). He highlighted India's commitment to fostering bilateral ties for mutual benefit, particularly focused on enhancing cooperative projects undertaken by India on the island.
Misri’s agenda included visits to key Indian-funded projects such as the Civil Service College and the new Area Health Centre under development at Cap Malheureux. These initiatives reflect the deep-rooted connection and collaborative spirit shared between India and Mauritius.
"The visit reaffirmed the commitment from both sides to deepen the multi-dimensional bilateral partnership for the prosperity and development of both countries and the larger Indian Ocean region,” the MEA's statement emphasized, underscoring the strategic importance of developmental cooperation.
With roots tracing back to historical links and shared cultural ties, India and Mauritius have forged strong diplomatic relations. The Aapravasi Ghat, which Misri also visited, serves as a poignant reminder of these connections, reflecting the legacy of Indian immigration to the island and showcasing the deep social and historical ties.
Misri’s discussions also ventured beyond governmental projects, aiming to explore new avenues for collaboration. The Foreign Secretary’s meetings with various leaders focused on identifying sectors where India could continue to provide support, particularly on regional issues concerning stability and development.
This visit to Mauritius is part of India’s broader strategy encapsulated by its Neighbourhood First, Vision Sagar, and Africa Forward initiatives, aimed at cementing ties with nations across the Indian Ocean and enhancing cooperative frameworks across various domains.
Misri's engagements demonstrated India's proactive approach in the Indian Ocean region, with Mauritius playing a pivotal role as both a strategic partner and as part of India’s aspirations for stronger ties with the African continent.
India's consistent support for Mauritius spans various sectors including education, healthcare, and infrastructure, with both nations reaffirming their commitment to work toward achieving shared goals.
Overall, the three-day mission, marked by high-level dialogues and visits to significant development sites, emphasizes the strength of India-Mauritius relations and the prospect of future cooperation. The visit not only marked Misri's first engagement with Mauritius as Foreign Secretary but also set the stage for enhanced collaboration as both countries navigate the challenges and opportunities of the modern world.
Through integrated efforts and mutual support, both nations look set to solidify their partnership, ensuring sustained growth and prosperity for the people of Mauritius and continuing India's legacy of engagement with its Indian Ocean neighbor.
