Mauritius: Highlighting the deep-rooted connection between Mauritius and India, Foreign Affairs Minister Dhananjay Ramful emphasized that the preparations for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming two-day visit are "unique and special." He noted that Indian investors can leverage Mauritius as a "gateway to Africa."
In an interview with ANI, Ramful, who oversees Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration, and International Trade, acknowledged the significant support India has provided in advancing development projects within Mauritius.
He mentioned the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA) between the two nations, expressing optimism about enhancing the effectiveness and utility of this trade agreement.
The CECPA was signed on February 22, 2021, during the visit of India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and it officially took effect on April 1, 2021. This agreement marks India's first trade pact with an African nation.
Ramful stated that the relationship between India and Mauritius is evolving, with discussions centered around establishing a strategic partnership.
"The preparations for this visit are distinctive and significant, reflecting our longstanding bond with India. Our historical ties date back to 1948, and over the years, this relationship has grown stronger through various exchanges. We are currently focusing on cultural interactions and enhancing our economic and trade relations. Now, we are reorienting our partnership towards a more strategic collaboration between Mauritius and India," he remarked.
India has consistently been a key partner in development, providing substantial support for numerous infrastructure projects. This brief interview cannot encompass the full extent of our collaboration. Notable initiatives include the Metro project, the new Supreme Court building, and the recently established ENT Hospital. Additionally, India has constructed a runway, among many other projects that have been successfully executed in Mauritius. India has been a steadfast ally to Mauritius in bringing these projects to fruition.
Dhananjay Ramful emphasized that Africa is on the rise, and Mauritius can serve as a strategic platform for investment across the continent.
"In terms of economic trade, we have the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CECPA) with India. We aim to enhance the effectiveness and utility of this trade agreement. My message to Indian investors is to view Mauritius as a gateway to Africa," he stated.
"Africa boasts a consumer base of 1.3 billion people. With its growing economy, Mauritius is well-positioned as a platform for investment in Africa, especially since it is a member of various organizations. These institutions provide Indian investors with opportunities to leverage the free trade agreement we have with India and to invest in diverse sectors, including pharmaceuticals and education," he added.
Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to make a State Visit to Mauritius on March 11-12 to participate in the National Day celebrations on March 12 as the Chief Guest. A contingent from the Indian Defence Forces will join the festivities, along with a ship from the Indian Navy. This will be Prime Minister Modi's first visit to Mauritius since 2015.
The Prime Minister's visit will include a meeting with the President of Mauritius, discussions with the Prime Minister, and engagements with high-ranking officials and political party leaders in the country. Additionally, the Prime Minister will connect with members of the Indian-origin community and officially open the Civil Service College and the Area Health Centre, both established with financial support from India. Several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) are expected to be signed during this visit.
