Mauritius Deputy Foreign Minister Hambyrajen Narsinghen expressed his country’s excitement and honor at welcoming Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a two-day state visit. PM Modi will attend the National Day celebrations on March 12 as the Chief Guest, marking his first visit to Mauritius since 2015.
Calling the occasion “special,” Narsinghen announced that all 34 ministers of the Mauritius government will be present at the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport to welcome PM Modi with full protocol and fanfare. He also highlighted the enduring partnership between India and Mauritius, rooted in history, geography, and shared cultural values.
In an interview with ANI, Narsinghen described India as a “role model” for Mauritius and noted the strong blend of experienced and new ministers in the recently formed Mauritius government. He emphasized the importance of PM Modi’s visit, which comes shortly after the country’s recent elections.
Reflecting on the bilateral relationship, Narsinghen stressed that India has been a traditional ally and said that the visit would help consolidate and enhance cooperation across multiple sectors. He pointed to the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA) as a foundation for deeper strategic ties.
On the expected outcomes of the visit, Narsinghen indicated plans for an enhanced strategic partnership beyond trade and commerce, focused on broader collaboration in areas like maritime security and capacity building. He expressed optimism that both prime ministers would work out impactful agreements, benefiting not just India and Mauritius but the global community.
Narsinghen also praised Mauritius’ skilled, bilingual workforce and its commitment to human rights, noting that a “new strategic partnership” with India would help tap these strengths more effectively.
Ahead of his departure, PM Modi expressed his enthusiasm for engaging with Mauritius’ leadership to elevate their partnership and strengthen their friendship for security and development in the Indian Ocean Region. Describing Mauritius as a “close maritime neighbor, key partner in the Indian Ocean, and gateway to the African continent,” Modi underscored the importance of the visit in shaping future cooperation.
During the visit, PM Modi will meet with the Mauritius President, Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, and other senior leaders. He will also inaugurate the Civil Service College and the Area Health Centre, both developed with India’s grant assistance, and participate in the exchange of several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs).
