The two countries review areas of cooperation and exchange views on regional and global matters
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday described India and Mauritius as not just partners, but as family. In a joint press statement with the Prime Minister of Mauritius, Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam, PM Modi emphasized that Mauritius is an important pillar of India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and “Vision MAHASAGAR.”
The bilateral meeting took place in Kashi—PM Modi’s parliamentary constituency and a symbol of India’s cultural and civilizational heritage. He recalled how Indian culture and traditions reached Mauritius centuries ago and became an integral part of daily life. “Just like the eternal flow of Maa Ganga in Kashi, the continuous stream of Indian culture has enriched Mauritius. And today, when we welcome friends from Mauritius in Kashi, it is not just a formality but a spiritual union. That is why I proudly say that India and Mauritius are not just partners but a family,” he said.
Ramgoolam praised PM Modi, saying the welcome they received upon arriving in Varanasi was unprecedented. “I’m glad it’s your constituency. I can understand why you get elected in such huge numbers,” he added.
Noting that India and Mauritius are two nations with shared dreams and destinies, PM Modi said a key goal was to “work towards enabling trade in local currencies.” Notably, UPI and RuPay were launched in Mauritius last year, and both sides have now agreed to move towards local currency trade.
“A free, open, secure, stable, and prosperous Indian Ocean is our shared priority,” he said. “In this context, India remains fully committed to strengthening the security of Mauritius’s Exclusive Economic Zone and enhancing its maritime capacity. India has always stood as the first responder and a net security provider in the Indian Ocean region.”
In March this year, during Mauritius’ National Day celebrations, the two countries elevated ties to an ‘Enhanced Strategic Partnership’ and signed eight pacts covering maritime security, trade, and development. The visit also marked the unveiling of India’s new vision for the Global South—MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions)—amid growing Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean.
PM Modi also congratulated Mauritius on the conclusion of the historic Chagos Agreement, signed with the UK in May 2025. The agreement restores sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. India welcomed the move as a significant step toward decolonization.
India announced a Special Economic Package to support Mauritius’s development, including a 500-bed hospital, an AYUSH Centre of Excellence, a veterinary school, and key infrastructure projects.
