Port Louis/New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed at Port Louis, the capital city of Mauritius, to a rousing welcome at 6 am (7.30 am IST) on Tuesday. Nearly 200 dignitaries, including Navin Ramgoolam, prime minister of Mauritius, and his cabinet colleagues were present at the airport to receive him.
But, why is this visit to this small Indian Ocean island nation being considered so crucial for a PM who has set a jetsetter image for himself by traveling across the globe frequently?
Need to counter China’s outreach:
China is continuing to expand its reach to nations in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). This is a matter of concern for India. While Sri Lanka has been coaxed by China to lift it’s embargo on the operation of Chinese research vessels within its territorial waters, the Maldives has also allowed the installation of fish aggregator devices by India’s northern neighbour in its Exclusive Economic Zone. India sees these moves as an effort to increase the presence of the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) in the IOR. Mauritius has been a strategic partner since long and India will strive to renew it’s economic and defence ties with the country.
A Gateway to Africa:
Mauritius is located strategically and India would like to treat it as a Gateway to Africa. This will help boost India’s economic interests in that continent, by allowing investment in varied fields. India strives to strengthen economic ties with African nations and tap into resources for mutual benefit. Helping in the development of Mauritius’ economy will help in renewed confidence about India’s Global South policy among the African nations. A number of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) are likely to be signed during the PM’s visit to Mauritius.
Traditional ties with Mauritius:
PM Modi was treated to a traditional Bhojpuri welcome at his hotel in Port Louis, with women performing Geet Gawai. Nearly 70% of the population of Mauritius are of Indian origin. India would certainly like to exploit this connection while respecting the country’s sovereignty. Modi will be the chief guest during the country’s National Day celebrations on Wednesday
