India’s External Affairs Minister Strengthens Ties with Mauritius

In a significant move to bolster India’s international relations, External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar embarked on a two-day visit to Mauritius on July 16 and 17, 2024. This visit marked a crucial step in reinforcing the strong bonds between India and Mauritius, two nations with deep historical and cultural ties.

Inauguration of India-Mauritius Maitree Udyan

A Symbol of Friendship

On July 16, 2024, Dr. Jaishankar inaugurated the India-Mauritius Maitree Udyan in Port Louis, the capital city of Mauritius. This park, whose name translates to “Friendship Garden,” stands as a testament to the enduring relationship between the two nations. The inauguration ceremony was graced by the presence of Maneesh Gobin, the Foreign Minister of Mauritius, underlining the bilateral nature of this initiative.

A Green Gesture

As part of the inauguration, Dr. Jaishankar planted a tree in the Maitree Udyan. This symbolic act not only represents the growth of India-Mauritius relations but also aligns with global efforts towards environmental conservation.

Significance of the Visit

First Bilateral Visit Post Re-appointment

This trip to Mauritius holds special significance as it marks Dr. Jaishankar’s first bilateral visit to any country following his re-appointment as India’s External Affairs Minister. It demonstrates the importance India places on its relationship with Mauritius in its foreign policy agenda.

Continuing Diplomatic Momentum

The visit follows closely on the heels of Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth’s attendance at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s swearing-in ceremony on June 9, 2024. This reciprocal visit underscores the mutual commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.

Key Engagements During the Visit

High-Level Meetings

During his stay, Dr. Jaishankar engaged in a series of high-profile meetings, including:

1. Discussions with Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth
2. Talks with Deputy Prime Minister Steven Obeegadoo
3. Bilateral discussions with his Mauritian counterpart, Maneesh Gobin

These meetings provided a platform for comprehensive discussions on various aspects of India-Mauritius relations.

Civil Service College Project

Dr. Jaishankar visited the Civil Service College project in Reduit, a significant initiative being developed with Indian assistance. He emphasized that this project symbolizes the India-Mauritius friendship and will serve as:

• A training center for Mauritian civil servants
• A center of excellence in public administration

This project highlights India’s commitment to capacity building in partner nations.

Inauguration of First Overseas Jan Aushadi Kendra

Extending Healthcare Cooperation

In a groundbreaking move, Dr. Jaishankar inaugurated the first Jan Aushadi Kendra outside India at Grand Bois, Mauritius. This inauguration was attended by Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, underscoring its importance.

Impact on Local Healthcare

The Medicilinic, established with Indian support, aims to:

• Provide secondary healthcare to 16,000 people in the Grand Bois area
• Offer affordable generic medicines through the Jan Aushadhi Kendra

This initiative exemplifies India’s commitment to global health and its “Neighborhood First” policy.

India’s Stance on the Chagos Archipelago Issue

Diplomatic Support

During his visit, Dr. Jaishankar reiterated India’s support for Mauritius’s claim over the Chagos archipelago, a contentious issue between Mauritius and the United Kingdom.

Historical Context

The Chagos Archipelago, comprising over 60 islands in the central Indian Ocean, has been a point of dispute since:

• The UK separated it from Mauritius before granting independence in 1968
• The UK has refused to return the islands, citing strategic importance, particularly Diego Garcia Island, which hosts a U.S. military base

Legal Developments

The dispute has seen significant legal developments:

• In 2019, the International Court of Justice ruled in favor of Mauritius
• The UK has not accepted this ruling, citing defense and security needs

India’s support on this issue aligns with its stance on territorial integrity and post-colonial justice.

About Mauritius: A Brief Overview

Geography and Demographics

Mauritius is an archipelagic nation located in the Indian Ocean, off the eastern coast of Africa. Key points include:

• It’s classified as an African country
• Approximately two-thirds of its population are of Indian origin, descendants of laborers brought by the British for sugarcane plantations
• Bhojpuri is widely spoken, reflecting the historical connections with eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar in India

Language and Religion

The linguistic and religious landscape of Mauritius is diverse:

• English is the official language, but Creole is most widely spoken
• About half the population practices Hinduism

This demographic makeup underscores the deep cultural ties between India and Mauritius.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

• Mauritius Capital: Port Louis;
• Mauritius Currency: Mauritian Rupee;
• Mauritius Prime Minister: Pravind Kumar Jugnauth.