Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Mauritius on March 12 for a two-day State visit, marking his second trip to the island nation since 2015. His visit coincides with Mauritius’ National Day celebrations, where he will be the Chief Guest. This visit not only underscores the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties between India and Mauritius but also highlights the strategic, economic, and geopolitical significance of the island nation in India’s broader diplomatic and security framework.
Historical and Cultural Ties: The Indian Connection
Mauritius has an intrinsic Indian connection, dating back to the early 19th century. The island nation has a significant Indo-Mauritian population, with nearly 70% of its people tracing their ancestry to India. This connection began with the arrival of Indian indentured laborers, who were brought by the British to work on sugarcane plantations after the abolition of slavery. The Aapravasi Ghat in Port Louis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to this migration.
The cultural bond between the two nations is reflected in language, cuisine, and traditions. Hindi, Bhojpuri, Tamil, and Marathi are widely spoken, and Indian festivals such as Diwali and Holi are celebrated with great enthusiasm. The Mauritian government actively promotes Indian cultural heritage through its education system and diplomatic relations with India.
Strategic Importance of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean Region
It occupies a crucial position in the Indian Ocean, making it a significant player in India’s maritime security framework. The island is located near key global shipping routes, and its strategic location makes it an important partner in India’s Indo-Pacific strategy. The presence of major global powers in the Indian Ocean, such as China’s increasing footprint in Africa and its development of ports in the region, has made Mauritius a vital partner for India in ensuring a free, open, and rules-based maritime order.
India has been actively involved in strengthening maritime cooperation with it, including naval exercises, joint surveillance operations, and training programs for Mauritian security forces. In 2015, India and Mauritius signed an agreement to develop the Agalega Islands, enhancing India’s ability to monitor the Indian Ocean and secure vital sea lanes.
Economic and Trade Relations
India and Mauritius share strong economic ties, with India being one of the largest trading partners and the primary source of foreign direct investment (FDI) for Mauritius. The island nation serves as a gateway for Indian businesses looking to expand into Africa due to its favorable taxation policies and business-friendly environment.
The Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA), signed in 2021, further deepened economic ties by facilitating trade and investment in various sectors, including financial services, healthcare, and IT. Mauritius is also a preferred destination for Indian tourists, and the recent easing of travel restrictions post-COVID-19 is expected to boost tourism between the two nations.
India’s Development Assistance to Mauritius
India has played a crucial role in Mauritius’ development by providing financial aid, technical expertise, and infrastructure development. Key projects supported by India include the Metro Express Light Rail System, the construction of government buildings, and the upgrade of Mauritius’ water supply infrastructure.
In 2016, India extended a $500 million Line of Credit to Mauritius for infrastructure development. The Indian government has also provided scholarships and training programs for Mauritian students and professionals, fostering long-term cooperation in education and skill development.
Defense and Security Cooperation
Defense cooperation is another critical aspect of the India-Mauritius relationship. The Indian Navy has been instrumental in enhancing Mauritius’ maritime security by supplying patrol vessels, conducting joint maritime exercises, and assisting in counter-piracy operations.
It has been a key partner in India’s efforts to combat illegal fishing, drug trafficking, and maritime terrorism in the region. India has provided Mauritius with Dornier aircraft and fast patrol vessels to strengthen its coast guard capabilities.
Geopolitical Significance: Countering China’s Influence
India’s engagement with Mauritius is also driven by the need to counter China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean region. China has been expanding its presence through its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), investing heavily in African and island nations, including Mauritius.
By strengthening its ties with Mauritius, India aims to maintain a balance of power in the region and ensure that the Indian Ocean remains a secure and stable zone. India’s approach focuses on development partnerships rather than debt-driven projects, positioning itself as a reliable and sustainable partner for Mauritius.
Mauritius’ Role in Africa and the Indian Diaspora
Mauritius serves as a bridge between India and Africa. It has strong economic and diplomatic ties with African nations, and India leverages this relationship to expand its outreach in the continent. The Mauritian financial sector, with its well-established banking and investment ecosystem, provides Indian companies with a gateway to African markets.
Additionally, It plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting Indian culture in the region. The island is home to institutions such as the Mahatma Gandhi Institute, which fosters academic and cultural exchange between India and Mauritiu.
Why PM Modi’s Visit Matters
PM Modi’s visit to Mauritius for its National Day celebrations is significant for multiple reasons:
- Strengthening Bilateral Ties – His presence underscores India’s commitment to its long-standing friendship with Mauritius and reaffirms India’s role as a key development partner.
- Boosting Strategic Cooperation – Given strategic location, the visit will further enhance maritime security and defense cooperation.
- Expanding Economic Engagement – Discussions on trade agreements, investments, and financial collaborations will deepen economic ties between the two nations.
- Cultural Diplomacy – PM Modi’s visit will emphasize the shared cultural heritage, reinforcing people-to-people connections.
- Countering Regional Challenges – The visit is also a strategic move to balance China’s influence in the region and ensure that remains aligned with India’s vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Conclusion
It holds a unique place in India’s foreign policy, blending historical, cultural, economic, and strategic dimensions. PM Modi’s visit is expected to further solidify this partnership, ensuring that the two nations continue to work closely on regional security, economic growth, and cultural exchange. As India continues to strengthen its position as a global power, its relationship will remain a cornerstone of its outreach in the Indian Ocean and Africa.
