Varanasi Summit: Mauritius PM Navinchandra Ramgoolam Meets Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Strengthening India-Mauritius Strategic Partnership
Image source: IANS
Varanasi, Sep 11 (TheTrendingPeople.com): Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam met India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri in Varanasi on Thursday, marking an important step in reinforcing the “Enhanced Strategic Partnership” between New Delhi and Port Louis. The meeting comes at a time when both countries are seeking to broaden cooperation across key sectors, from renewable energy to the blue economy, while deepening their long-standing cultural and historical ties.
Strong Commitment to Bilateral Partnership
In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) noted:
“Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri called on PM Navinchandra Ramgoolam of Mauritius today in Varanasi. Discussed multifaceted partnership and reaffirmed commitment in strengthening India-Mauritius Enhanced Strategic Partnership anchored in shared history, culture & people-to-people ties.”
Ramgoolam, currently on an eight-day visit to India, is expected to hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi later this week. These discussions are set to review the full spectrum of cooperation, with emphasis on capacity building, healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.
Modi’s Arrival in Varanasi
Prime Minister Modi, who arrived in his parliamentary constituency earlier in the day, received a warm welcome from Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers and supporters. His convoy was showered with flowers as it made its way through the decorated streets of Varanasi. Modi later proceeded to the Taj Hotel, where bilateral meetings with his Mauritian counterpart are scheduled.
The city has been adorned with elaborate arrangements to host this high-level diplomatic engagement. Given Varanasi’s significance as one of the oldest living cities in the world, the choice of venue underscores the civilisational and spiritual bonds shared between India and Mauritius.
Areas of Focus in Bilateral Talks
Officials said that Modi and Ramgoolam will explore avenues to expand cooperation in several priority areas:
- Healthcare and Education: Strengthening exchanges in medical research, pharmaceuticals, and higher education.
- Science, Technology, and Digital Public Infrastructure: Building partnerships in innovation and technology-driven governance.
- Energy and Infrastructure: Special focus on renewable energy and sustainable urban planning.
- Blue Economy: Enhancing cooperation in maritime security, fisheries, and ocean-based industries.
This agenda builds upon the positive momentum from Modi’s visit to Mauritius in March 2025, when the two countries elevated their ties to an “Enhanced Strategic Partnership.”
Strategic Importance of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean
As a close maritime neighbour, Mauritius holds strategic significance in advancing India’s MAHASAGAR Vision (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Region) and the ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy.
Mauritius is considered a vital partner in ensuring peace, security, and sustainable growth in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Both sides view the partnership as not just bilateral but also as part of a larger contribution to the aspirations of the Global South.
Ramgoolam’s Statement on Business Opportunities
Before arriving in Varanasi, Prime Minister Ramgoolam addressed a business conclave in Maharashtra. He highlighted the enduring strength of the partnership, calling Mauritius “the most reliable partner for India.” He also underlined the immense business opportunities between the two nations, particularly in trade, investment, and technology.
Historical Ties and Past Engagements
Mauritius has played a unique role in India’s diplomatic outreach. In 2014, Ramgoolam was the only non-SAARC leader invited to attend Prime Minister Modi’s swearing-in ceremony.
The diplomatic relationship between India and Mauritius predates the island nation’s independence. India established diplomatic relations with Mauritius in 1948, reflecting the deep-rooted cultural and historical connections, particularly the strong Indian-origin community in Mauritius.
The ties are characterised by high-level trust, consistent political engagement, and collaboration across diverse fields. The current visit builds upon this foundation, reaffirming the long-standing relationship.
Varanasi Summit as a Symbolic Milestone
The choice of Varanasi as the venue holds symbolic value. Known as one of the cradles of ancient Indian civilisation, the city reflects the shared cultural and spiritual heritage that both nations cherish.
The summit is expected to serve as a landmark in bilateral ties, focusing not just on trade and development but also on reinforcing the emotional and historical bonds between the people of India and Mauritius.
Looking Ahead: India-Mauritius Cooperation
The India-Mauritius relationship is poised to grow in the coming years, particularly in the following areas:
- Capacity Building: Expanding scholarships, training programs, and skill development exchanges.
- Technology Collaboration: Joint initiatives in digital transformation, fintech, and cybersecurity.
- Sustainability: Cooperation in renewable energy, climate change adaptation, and ocean conservation.
- Regional Security: Strengthening maritime patrols, counter-piracy operations, and defence collaboration in the Indian Ocean.
These initiatives are expected to strengthen the bilateral framework while contributing to regional peace and prosperity.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
The Varanasi meeting between Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam and India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri sets the stage for an important chapter in India-Mauritius relations. With Prime Minister Modi’s participation, the summit underscores the significance of cultural heritage, maritime security, and sustainable growth as central pillars of the partnership.
As both nations look to the future, their shared vision—anchored in history, trust, and mutual respect—will likely shape not only their bilateral journey but also their collective contribution to the Global South and the Indian Ocean Region.