PORT LOUIS, March 12: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Mauritius resulted in the signing of eight significant Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at enhancing the strategic and economic relations between India and Mauritius. The agreements, signed during the visit, cover a wide range of areas including currency settlement, water management, shipping information sharing, financial crimes cooperation, and public administration training.
One of the key agreements was a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Central Bank of Mauritius and the Reserve Bank of India to establish a Local Currency Settlement System, which will facilitate smoother financial transactions between the two countries. Additionally, a Credit Facility Agreement was signed between the Government of Mauritius and the State Bank of India for financing projects under the Central Water Authority’s Pipe Replacement Programme in Mauritius.
In a move to boost diplomatic and security collaboration, an MoU was signed between the Institute of Foreign Service of India and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration, and International Trade of Mauritius. This MoU aims to enhance training programs for diplomats of both nations. Furthermore, a Technical Agreement was signed between the Indian Navy and the Mauritius Police Force for sharing White Shipping Information, reinforcing maritime security cooperation.
The MoUs also include agreements to bolster financial cooperation, such as an MoU between the Financial Crimes Commission of Mauritius and India’s Enforcement Directorate to fight financial crimes. In terms of economic growth, an agreement between the Ministry of Industry, SMEs, and Cooperatives of Mauritius and India’s Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises was signed to promote small business initiatives. Moreover, the MoU between the Ministry of Public Service and Administrative Reforms of Mauritius and India’s National Centre for Good Governance aims to train public officials in administrative efficiency.
In the field of maritime research and resource management, an MoU was signed between the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services and the Department for Continental Shelf, Maritime Zones Administration, and Exploration of Mauritius. This agreement will enhance collaboration in oceanic studies.
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi also inaugurated several key infrastructure projects in Mauritius, including the Civil Service College and an Area Health Centre, both funded by India’s grant assistance. This visit further underscores India’s commitment to supporting infrastructure, healthcare, education, and connectivity projects in countries around the world.
India’s leadership in development projects extends beyond Mauritius. Notable projects include the construction of the Gyaltsuen Jetsun Pema Wangchuck Mother and Child Hospital in Bhutan, key cross-border rail and power projects in Bangladesh, and Nepal’s first broad-gauge passenger railway link. India has also contributed significantly to infrastructure in Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan, reinforcing its role as a strong development partner.
The signing of these MoUs and the continued international collaborations mark another step in enhancing India’s global influence and commitment to mutual growth with its neighbors and allies.
