India and Mauritius have upgraded their bilateral relations to an “enhanced strategic partnership” during a recent visit on Wednesday March 12 by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the island nation. The announcement highlights New Delhi’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean region as it seeks to counter China’s expanding footprint.
During his two-day visit, Modi participated in Mauritius’s National Day celebrations and held talks with Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to ensuring a “free, safe, secure and open Indian Ocean.” This strengthened cooperation aims to address critical geopolitical challenges in the region.
As part of the enhanced partnership, Mauritius conferred its highest civilian honour on Modi, and the two countries signed eight agreements covering various sectors, including maritime security. Modi also announced India’s commitment to investing approximately $11 million in community development projects across Mauritius, including the construction of a new parliament building, described as a “gift from the mother of democracy.” The visit marks a significant milestone in the countries’ ties, particularly as India recognizes the growing importance of Mauritius, which serves as a gateway to both the Western Indian Ocean and Africa.
The growing Chinese influence in Mauritius has not gone unnoticed. Beijing’s economic presence has surged since it signed a free trade agreement with Mauritius in 2019, further cementing its strategic partnership with the island. Bilateral trade between China and Mauritius has grown significantly, reaching $1.1 billion. In response, India has stepped up its engagement with Mauritius, including constructing infrastructure on the Agalega Islands to monitor maritime traffic in the region. India has also voiced its support for Mauritius’s sovereignty claims over the Chagos Islands, in line with its long-standing stance on decolonisation and territorial integrity. This evolving partnership reflects India’s commitment to bolstering regional security and maintaining a balanced geopolitical presence in the Indian Ocean.