India and Mauritius reaffirmed their commitment to deepening defence, maritime security, and cultural cooperation, with both countries acknowledging the strategic depth their partnership has acquired. During high-level discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mauritius Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam, the leaders underscored their shared vision for a free, open, safe, and secure Indian Ocean Region.
Maritime Security and Defence Cooperation
Recognizing maritime security as a key pillar of their bilateral relations, both leaders agreed to work closely in countering maritime challenges and protecting regional strategic interests. The Prime Minister of Mauritius expressed gratitude for India’s unwavering support in safeguarding its vast Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) through the provision of defence assets, joint maritime surveillance, hydrographic surveys, and regular patrolling.
“India has emerged as a significant security provider for Mauritius,” said Prime Minister Ramgoolam, acknowledging India’s assistance in refitting Coast Guard Ships Victory, Valiant, and Barracuda.
Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s commitment to strengthening Mauritius’ defence capabilities under its Vision SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region). “Mauritius is a special maritime partner for India. Our shared objectives in the region drive us to continue supporting its defence and security needs,” he stated.
The two leaders agreed to enhance maritime cooperation through increased deployment of ships and aircraft, further secure Mauritius’ EEZ using the newly built Agalega runway and jetty, and assist in setting up a National Maritime Information Sharing Centre to bolster maritime domain awareness. India also committed to providing expertise in marine operations and port security while supporting customized training initiatives for the Mauritius Police Force.
Regional and Multilateral Collaboration
Discussions also covered regional geopolitical matters, including the ongoing dialogue between Mauritius and the United Kingdom on the Chagos Islands. Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s “firm and unwavering support” to Mauritius on the issue, a gesture appreciated by Prime Minister Ramgoolam.
The two leaders pledged to advance regional cooperation through frameworks such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), Colombo Security Conclave, Global Biofuels Alliance, International Solar Alliance, and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. They welcomed India’s upcoming chairmanship of IORA for 2025-26, recognizing its potential to enhance regional maritime security.
Deepening Cultural and People-to-People Ties
Highlighting the historical and cultural connections between India and Mauritius, both leaders expressed a strong commitment to preserving their shared heritage. Efforts will be made to support the Mahatma Gandhi Institute in documenting the records of indentured Indian workers, with institutional backing from the National Archives of India.
Diaspora engagement will be strengthened through initiatives such as the Know India Programme, Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, and scholarships for Mauritian students. The leaders also discussed expanding tourism and cultural exchanges, including visits to religious sites in India, such as Char Dham and the Ramayana Trail.
To facilitate labor mobility, both nations agreed to expedite the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on labor recruitment between Mauritius and India.
A Strategic Partnership for the Future
Expressing satisfaction with the comprehensive discussions, both leaders acknowledged the evolution of the India-Mauritius relationship into a model bilateral partnership in the region. “Our special and close bilateral ties set a standard for cooperation,” they stated in a joint declaration, emphasizing their shared vision of elevating the relationship into an enhanced strategic partnership that benefits both nations.
Prime Minister Ramgoolam thanked Prime Minister Modi for his presence as the Guest of Honour at Mauritius’ 57th National Day celebrations, marking the anniversary of the country’s independence and the 33rd anniversary of the Republic of Mauritius.
