For us, Mauritius is family: PM Modi meets country’s new leadership

The decision to develop infrastructure in Agalega islands was taken during the tenure of the Jugnauths. Delhi is now making an effort to reach out to the new regime led by Ramgoolam. Mauritius has been ruled by the Ramgoolams and the Jugnauths ever since the country became independent in 1968.

Speaking at an event for the Indian diaspora in Port Louis, which was also attended by Ramgoolam, Modi underlined India’s role as a “trusted ally in combating illegal fishing, piracy, and maritime crimes”.

“As a reliable friend, India works with Mauritius to protect its national interests and secure the Indian Ocean region,” he said.

He said Mauritius is not just a partner country. “For us, Mauritius is family,” he said. “This bond is deep and strongly rooted in history, heritage and the human spirit.”

And, he described Mauritius as a vital bridge connecting India to the Global South, a relationship reinforced by India’s SAGAR (Security And Growth for All in the Region) vision, first announced during his 2015 visit to the island nation.

“A decade ago, I shared the SAGAR vision here. Today, Mauritius remains at its heart,” Modi said.

Ramgoolam acknowledged the contributions of the Indian diaspora: “Your participation is vital for the economic growth of Mauritius. When you come here, you enrich our country as well.”

“We want to encourage people from India, more people to come to invest in Mauritius, especially foreign investors,” he said.

“We are looking forward to making businesses easier to do, less bureaucracy, less red tape,” he said.

Ramgoolam announced the conferment of his country’s highest civilian honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean, on Modi. This prestigious accolade marks Modi as the first Indian and only the fifth global recipient of the award, recognising his contributions to strengthening India-Mauritius relations.

Earlier in the day, Modi was received at the airport by Ramgoolam, who was joined by the Deputy Prime Minister, Chief Justice of Mauritius, Speaker of the National Assembly, Leader of the Opposition, Foreign Minister, Cabinet Secretary, Chairperson of Grand Port District Council and a total of 200 dignitaries.

During the meeting with President Gokhool, the two leaders exchanged views on deepening the special and close bilateral ties.

“Had a great meeting with His Excellency Mr Dharambeer Gokhool, President of Mauritius. He is well acquainted with India and Indian culture. Expressed gratitude for inviting me to be a part of the National Day celebrations of Mauritius. We discussed how to further boost bilateral ties across diverse sectors,” Modi said in a post on X.

He noted that it was an honour for him to attend the National Day celebrations of Mauritius as chief guest for the second time.

In a special gesture, Modi handed over OCI cards to President Gokhool and First Lady Vrinda Gokhool, as well as Ramgoolam and his wife Veena.

He gifted holy Sangam water from the Mahakumbh in a brass and copper pot to President Gokhool. He also gifted Makhana, a superfood from Bihar, to Gokhool.

The Prime Minister presented a Banarasi silk saree in a Sadeli box to the wife of President Gokhool.

After the talks, President Gokhool hosted a State lunch in honour of the Prime Minister.

Modi also visited the Ayurveda Garden in the State House, established in collaboration with the Government of India. The Prime Minister noted that Mauritius is an important partner for India in advancing the benefits of traditional medicine, including Ayurveda.

“It is commendable that an Ayurvedic Garden has been built in the State House in Mauritius. I am also happy that Ayurveda is gaining popularity in Mauritius. President Dharambeer Gokhool and I went to the Ayurvedic Garden, giving me the opportunity to see it firsthand,” Modi said on X.

Before meeting President Gokhool, Modi and Ramgoolam planted a sapling at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden.

Modi laid a wreath at the samadhi of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, the founding father of Mauritius. He also laid a wreath at the samadhi of Anerood Jugnauth.

“Went to the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden with Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam. This is a fine botanical garden, a living archive of biodiversity which illustrates Mauritius’ conservation efforts and botanical heritage,” he said.

“Paid homage to Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam and Sir Anerood Jugnauth, two great leaders who have made indelible contributions to Mauritius’ progress,” he said in another post.

“Humbled by the heartfelt gesture of my friend, Prime Minister Dr Navin Ramgoolam, in taking part in ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ – a tribute to nature, motherhood and sustainability. His support stands tall as a symbol of our shared commitment to a greener and better future,” he said.

This is Modi’s Second State visit since 2015. He will be the Chief Guest at the National Day Celebrations on March 12.

For India, China’s increasing footprint in the Indian Ocean region has been a cause of concern, and it wants to work closely with island countries like Mauritius. Notably, Mauritius faced the devastating Cyclone Chido last year, particularly affecting Agalega. India managed to mobilise its naval assets and utilise the facilities created in Agalega to deliver assistance and relief material.

The two sides are looking at moving on defence and maritime security, and are likely to sign a technical agreement on sharing white-shipping information between the Indian Navy and the Mauritius authorities. It will further enhance maritime security of Mauritius, safety of its trading corridors, and enhance regional cooperation in real-time data-sharing.

An Indian naval ship will make a port call at Port Louis to celebrate the occasion of Modi as the Chief Guest at Mauritius National Day celebrations. A marching contingent from the Indian Navy along with an Indian Navy helicopter, Akash Ganga skydiving team from the IAF and a team of NCC cadets will also participate in the celebration.