President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam of Mauritius reinforced their nations' special bilateral relationship during their meeting at Rashtrapati Bhavan on September 16, 2025. Both leaders emphasised the deep-rooted bonds founded on shared history, language, culture, and values, acknowledging the enduring friendship that has grown over decades.

President Murmu expressed strong confidence in Ramgoolam’s leadership, noting that their relationship is poised for further strengthening, especially considering his extensive experience. Ramgoolam, during his visit, paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, signalling respect for India’s core spiritual and national values, and also signed the visitors' book, underscoring the significance of the visit.

The eight-day official visit, which began on September 9, marked Ramgoolam’s first overseas bilateral engagement in his current term. Prior to his Delhi stay, he visited Tirupati, attending a spiritual event at Sri Brahmrishi Ashram, and visited Tirumala Temple — visits that reinforced the cultural and spiritual ties shared by the two nations. His itinerary also included visits to Mumbai, Varanasi, and Ayodhya, and consisted of political, cultural, and spiritual engagements.

A major highlight was the discussion on strengthening India-Mauritius cooperation across multiple domains. Both leaders acknowledged the strategic importance of Mauritius due to its location in the western Indian Ocean, which aids India’s regional security under the SAGAR/MAHASAGAR initiative, while also serving as a gateway for India’s trade and investment with Africa.

The two countries formalised several agreements and MoUs, including a Special Economic Package covering infrastructure, healthcare, and employment projects, along with cooperation in space technology, satellite telemetry, navigation, remote sensing, and capacity building.

Significantly, the visit resulted in tangible outcomes such as the establishment of the first Jan Aushadhi Kendras outside India in Mauritius, and commitments to develop an AYUSH Centre of Excellence, reflecting a shared focus on healthcare. On energy, a MoU was signed on developing a 17.5 MW floating solar power plant — a move towards sustainable development.

The cooperation extends to civil service capacity building, with India offering training and institutional expertise through Mission Karmayogi, and to maritime security, defensive, and infrastructure projects such as hospital and port development.

India’s comprehensive support reflects its strategic importance for Mauritius, helping to bolster its security, economic, and developmental priorities.

The President appreciated the ongoing support, emphasising the role of India in helping Mauritius protect its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and respond effectively to regional crises like oil spills, cyclones, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the relationship's expansion into new sectors such as digital technology and space signifies a multifaceted partnership aimed at mutual growth.

Despite these robust ties, challenges persist, including Mauritius's dependence on Indian aid and the need to diversify its international partnerships due to rising Chinese investments and geopolitical competition. Domestic political considerations and ensuring private sector engagement also remain areas for development.

Nonetheless, the overall trajectory indicates a deepening partnership, with both leaders optimistic about future collaborations.

These exchanges exemplify a broader Indian strategic approach to the Indian Ocean region, fostering regional stability, economic integration, and shared cultural values, thus ensuring a comprehensive, sustained relationship between New Delhi and Port Louis.

Based On ANI Report