​Old ties, new priorities: On India-Mauritius ties  

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Mauritius this week, and his meeting with its newly elected Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam, marked a decade since his last visit. His trip aimed to strengthen the India-Mauritius strategic partnership and launch new economic and development initiatives. While Mr. Ramgoolam’s previous tenure (2005–14) overlapped briefly with Mr. Modi’s, the two leaders have maintained close ties. Even during India’s strict COVID-19 lockdown, the Indian government facilitated Mr. Ramgoolam’s medical evacuation to India. Acknowledging this support, Mr. Ramgoolam warmly welcomed Mr. Modi as a guest at Mauritius’ National Day celebrations where he was also conferred the highest national award. Though not India’s closest geographical neighbour, Mauritius remains deeply connected to India. Over 70% of Mauritians are of Indian descent, with enduring cultural ties to India. While Mr. Modi’s engagements highlighted these shared historical and cultural bonds, the visit was primarily focused on strategic priorities. India seeks to strengthen its partnership with Mauritius as a key player in the Indian Ocean, an African nation, and a link to the Global South.

As part of this deepening partnership, the two leaders upgraded their strategic ties and committed to increased defence cooperation. India also announced several major economic initiatives, that include bilateral trade in national currencies, support for a new Mauritius parliament building, and a ₹487 crore credit facility to improve water infrastructure. These projects build upon previous Indian-led developments, such as an airstrip and jetty in the Agalega islands, the Mauritius Metro rail project, and the New Supreme Court Building. The visit also carried geopolitical implications. Mr. Ramgoolam has expressed a desire to renegotiate Mauritius’ agreement with the U.K. regarding sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago, home to a U.S. military base in Diego Garcia. While India helped broker the previous deal under Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth’s government, it has assured Mr. Ramgoolam of its full support in whatever course he chooses. Meanwhile, India is also watching China’s growing footprint. China’s strategic partnership with Mauritius includes a free trade agreement and bilateral trade worth $1.1 billion — double that of India-Mauritius trade at $554 million. With the PLA Navy’s increased presence in the Indian Ocean, Mr. Modi’s announcement of the MAHASAGAR doctrine is significant. At a time when shifting U.S. foreign policy threatens the international rules-based order, disrupts trade, and risks fragmenting global alliances into rigid spheres of influence, Mr. Modi’s visit has underscored India’s commitment to strengthening regional ties and reinforcing partnerships with trusted friends.