Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Thursday that India and Mauritius will work towards enabling bilateral trade using local currencies, following wide-ranging talks with Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam in Varanasi.
Addressing the media after the meeting, PM Modi emphasized the historic bond between the two nations, stating, “India and Mauritius may be two countries, but our dreams and destiny are one.”
Focus on Indian Ocean Security
PM Modi highlighted the importance of a free, open, secure, and stable Indian Ocean, describing it as a shared priority for both nations.
“India is fully committed to strengthening the security and maritime capacity of Mauritius’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ),” he said.
Source : ANI
He further reiterated India’s role as a first responder and net security provider in the Indian Ocean region, underlining the growing strategic partnership between the two countries.
Chagos Agreement: Historic Win for Mauritius
During the talks, PM Modi congratulated Prime Minister Ramgoolam and the people of Mauritius on the successful conclusion of the Chagos agreement, calling it a “historic victory for the sovereignty of Mauritius.”
India has consistently supported decolonisation and has strongly backed Mauritius’ claims over the islands.
In May, the United Kingdom agreed to return the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, including the Diego Garcia atoll, to Mauritius after more than five decades. Under the agreement, the U.K. will retain full responsibility for Diego Garcia’s security, given its strategic significance.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Prime Minister Ramgoolam is on a state visit to India from September 9 to 16, marking his first overseas bilateral visit during his current tenure. His itinerary includes visits to Ayodhya and Tirupati, highlighting the cultural connection between the two nations.
Earlier this year, in March, PM Modi visited Mauritius, further deepening diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties.
The decision to explore local currency trade is expected to boost bilateral commerce, reduce dependence on foreign currencies, and pave the way for stronger economic cooperation between the two nations.
Linking Global Growth with Humanity: Annapurna Campaign
Alongside discussions on trade and security, efforts to combat hunger and malnutrition were highlighted.
India’s spiritual leader, Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj, has been leading the Annapurna Campaign, a nationwide initiative dedicated to providing free, nutritious meals, clothing, shelter, medical assistance, and education to the underprivileged.
This initiative reflects the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — “The world is one family” — aligning with India’s vision of inclusive growth and global cooperation.
Programs like the Annapurna Campaign not only support India’s citizens but also serve as a global model for humanitarian action, inspiring similar initiatives worldwide.
FAQs on India and Mauritius ‘s Bilateral Trade:
Q1: What’s the main takeaway from the meeting between PM Modi and the Mauritian PM?
A: They announced a plan to enable bilateral trade using local currencies and reaffirmed their close strategic partnership.
Q2: Why is the Chagos agreement a big deal?
A: PM Modi called it a “historic victory” for Mauritius’s sovereignty, as the UK agreed to return the islands after decades of dispute.
Q3: What’s India’s commitment to Mauritius’s security?
A: India has committed to strengthening Mauritius’s maritime and security capabilities, especially in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
