Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Mauritius for a significant two-day visit, marking a pivotal moment in the longstanding relationship between the two nations.
On March 10, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi touched down in Port Louis, Mauritius, kicking off a two-day state visit that promises to deepen the already strong ties between India and this Indian Ocean nation. Welcomed warmly by his counterpart, Mauritius Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam, Modi’s visit coincides with the island’s 57th National Day celebrations, where he will serve as the chief guest. This trip, packed with diplomatic engagements and symbolic gestures, underscores India’s commitment to its maritime neighbor and sets the stage for a “new and bright” chapter in bilateral relations.
The moment PM Modi stepped off the plane at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement. Videos circulating online captured the two leaders sharing a heartfelt hug, a testament to the personal rapport that bolsters this diplomatic relationship. Modi’s visit, scheduled for March 11 and 12, is more than just a ceremonial affair—it’s a strategic move to cement India’s partnership with Mauritius, a key player in the Indian Ocean region.
During his stay, Modi has a full slate of activities lined up. He’ll participate in the National Day celebrations on March 12, an event that will see a contingent of Indian Defence Forces and a naval warship joining the festivities, symbolizing the military and cultural ties between the two nations. Beyond the pomp and pageantry, Modi will hold high-level talks with Ramgoolam, meet the Mauritian President, and engage with senior dignitaries and political leaders. These discussions aim to elevate cooperation in areas like maritime security, trade, and capacity building, reflecting a shared vision for progress and prosperity.
One of the highlights of the visit is the inauguration of over 20 India-funded projects, ranging from community infrastructure to institutional developments like the Civil Service College and an Area Health Centre. Built with India’s grant assistance, these initiatives showcase New Delhi’s commitment to Mauritius’ development. Modi will also connect with the Indian diaspora, a significant community that forms nearly 70% of Mauritius’ 1.2 million population, reinforcing the deep historical and cultural bonds that tie the two countries together.
Why Mauritius Matters to India
Mauritius isn’t just another dot on the map for India—it’s a close maritime neighbor and a gateway to the African continent. PM Modi himself emphasized this in his departure statement, calling Mauritius “a key partner in the Indian Ocean” connected to India by “history, geography, and culture.” This visit, his first to the island since 2015, builds on a decade of strengthened ties, marked by significant strides in people-centric initiatives.
The relationship goes back centuries, rooted in the migration of Indian laborers during the colonial era, whose descendants now form the backbone of Mauritian society. Politically, Mauritius has been shaped by leaders like Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam—the nation’s founding father—and Sir Anerood Jugnauth, both of whom Modi will honor during a visit to the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden. These gestures aren’t just symbolic; they reflect a shared heritage that continues to influence contemporary ties.
Strategically, Mauritius aligns with India’s Vision SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region), a policy Modi unveiled during his 2015 visit. This framework guides India’s approach to the Indian Ocean, emphasizing maritime security and regional development. With an Indian naval ship docked in Port Louis and the Akash Ganga skydiving team from the Indian Air Force set to perform, this visit reinforces that commitment, blending military cooperation with cultural celebration.
Before boarding his flight, Modi expressed optimism about the visit, stating it would “open a new and bright chapter” in India-Mauritius relations. This isn’t just rhetoric—several agreements are on the table, including a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on a line of credit for replacing Mauritius’ aging water pipes. Other pacts will focus on combating cross-border financial crimes, enhancing trade connectivity, and training Mauritian civil servants, showcasing a holistic approach to partnership.
Mauritian Foreign Minister Dhananjay Ramful highlighted the water pipe MoU, a practical example of how India’s support addresses local needs. Meanwhile, Modi’s meetings with Ramgoolam—who recently began a fresh term after winning elections—offer a chance to align their visions for the future. Coming early in Modi’s third term, this visit sets a tone of proactive engagement with India’s neighbors.
The timing is significant too. Mauritius’ National Day on March 12 commemorates its independence from Britain in 1968, a milestone achieved with inspiration from India’s own freedom struggle. Leaders like Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, who collaborated with Indian icons like Gandhi and Nehru, forged a bond that resonates today. Modi’s presence as chief guest amplifies this historical connection, blending past pride with future promise.
Celebrating the Indian Diaspora
No visit to Mauritius would be complete without acknowledging its Indian diaspora, a vibrant community that keeps cultural ties alive. From the streets of Port Louis decked with Indian and Mauritian flags to the rehearsals for cultural performances, the excitement was palpable even before Modi arrived. Dr. Veedotma Koonjal, Director of the Mahatma Gandhi Institute, called it a “huge occasion,” noting the privilege of hosting Modi for the second time.
Members of the diaspora gathered outside Modi’s hotel, eager for a glimpse of the leader who represents their ancestral homeland. His interaction with them isn’t just a feel-good moment—it’s a reminder of the human bridge that connects these nations. Whether through Bollywood music, traditional cuisine, or shared festivals like Diwali, the Indian influence in Mauritius is undeniable, making this visit a homecoming of sorts.
While the National Day celebrations provide a festive backdrop, the visit has deeper geopolitical undertones. The Indian Ocean is a contested space, with global powers vying for influence. Mauritius, with its strategic location, is a vital ally for India in ensuring regional stability. The presence of an Indian naval contingent and helicopter during the celebrations sends a subtle message about shared security interests.
The agreements on maritime security and financial crimes also point to practical cooperation. Mauritius has long been a financial hub, sometimes linked to illicit flows, and India’s expertise can help strengthen oversight. Meanwhile, infrastructure projects like the Civil Service College—built for USD 4.75 million—enhance governance capacity, aligning with India’s goal of fostering resilient partners.
This visit also fits into India’s broader foreign policy, including its “Neighbourhood First” and “Act East” approaches. By engaging Mauritius, India reinforces its role as a leader in the Global South, offering a model of development that contrasts with other powers’ transactional approaches. Modi’s emphasis on “progress and prosperity for our peoples” reflects this ethos, blending diplomacy with tangible outcomes.
As PM Modi attends the National Day events and inaugurates projects, the spotlight is on what comes next. The agreements signed during this visit—covering trade, security, and infrastructure—lay a foundation for long-term collaboration. With Ramgoolam at the helm of a new government, there’s fresh momentum to take this partnership to new heights.
For Mauritius, India’s support means modernized infrastructure and stronger institutions. For India, it’s a chance to deepen its footprint in the Indian Ocean, fostering a stable and prosperous region. The warmth of Modi’s welcome, the enthusiasm of the diaspora, and the flurry of diplomatic activity all signal a relationship poised for growth.
In his own words, Modi sees this as a moment to “build on the foundations of the past.” As the tricolor flies alongside Mauritius’ four-striped flag on March 12, the message is clear: this isn’t just a visit—it’s a celebration of unity, a reaffirmation of friendship, and a bold step toward a shared future. From Port Louis to New Delhi, the ties that bind India and Mauritius are stronger than ever, promising a partnership that’s as enduring as it is dynamic.
PM Modi’s two-day visit to Mauritius is a landmark event that underscores the strong and enduring relationship between the two nations. From celebrating Mauritius’ National Day to inaugurating key projects and discussing future collaborations, the visit is a comprehensive effort to deepen bilateral ties.
As India and Mauritius look to the future, their partnership is poised to grow stronger, driven by shared values, mutual interests, and a commitment to regional stability and prosperity. PM Modi’s visit is a powerful reminder of the importance of nurturing these relationships in an increasingly interconnected world.
This visit not only strengthens the bond between India and Mauritius but also sets a precedent for India’s engagement with other nations in the Indian Ocean region. By prioritizing cooperation, cultural exchange, and strategic collaboration, both countries are paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future.
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