PM Modi’s Mauritius Visit: Strengthening Historical, Strategic, and Economic Ties
(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained, Page – 15)
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Topic: GS2 – International Relations |
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Context |
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Analysis of the news:
Historical Ties
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Mauritius has deep historical connections with India, dating back to the 18th century when Indians were first brought as laborers under French rule.
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During British rule, over 500,000 Indian indentured workers arrived between 1834 and the early 1900s, with two-thirds settling permanently.
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The country was among the first to establish diplomatic relations with independent India in 1948.
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Its political landscape has been shaped by the Ramgoolam and Jugnauth families, both of whom have historical ties with Indian leaders.
Strategic Cooperation and Infrastructure Development
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India has played a crucial role in Mauritius’ infrastructure development, including the Agaléga island project, which enhances sea and air connectivity.
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Recently, India and Mauritius jointly inaugurated an airstrip and jetty there, aiding maritime security and economic activities.
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Despite concerns about military intentions, the Mauritian leadership has refuted any claims of sovereignty compromise.
Security and Maritime Cooperation
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Given China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean, India is strengthening security ties with Mauritius.
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Both countries are set to sign a technical agreement on white-shipping information sharing, improving maritime security, trade corridor safety, and regional cooperation.
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Additionally, India has been a key partner in disaster relief, assisting Mauritius in crises like the 2020 Wakashio oil spill and Cyclone Chido.
Economic and Trade Relations
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India is one of Mauritius’ largest trading partners and the second-largest source of FDI into India.
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In 2021, both nations signed the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA), India’s first trade deal with an African country.
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Over the last decade, India has provided nearly $1.1 billion in development assistance, supporting projects like the Metro Express and community initiatives.
Space and Capacity Building
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India has collaborated with Mauritius in space research since 1986, and a recent MoU aims to develop a joint satellite.
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Mauritius also benefits from India’s ITEC program, with nearly 5,000 Mauritians trained in civilian and defense sectors.
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Meanwhile, Mauritius hosts around 2,300 Indian students in higher education institutions.
Cultural and Ancestral Connections
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PM Modi’s visit highlights the shared cultural heritage, including Seewoosagur Ramgoolam’s ancestry from Bihar, the observance of Maha Shivratri, and the significance of the Ganga Talao pilgrimage site.
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These connections continue to strengthen India-Mauritius ties, reflecting deep-rooted historical, strategic, and economic partnerships.
Conclusion
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PM Modi’s visit to Mauritius reinforces the deep-rooted historical, strategic, and economic ties between the two nations.
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By expanding cooperation in security, trade, infrastructure, and cultural exchange, India aims to strengthen its role as a key partner in Mauritius’ development while countering regional geopolitical challenges.
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What are the challenges in India-Mauritius Relations? |
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1. Declining FDI Inflows from Mauritius: The 2016 amendment of the DTAA reduced the attractiveness of Mauritius as an FDI conduit to India. E.g. FDI from Mauritius declined from $15.72 billion in 2016-17 to $6.13 billion in 2022-23, making Mauritius India’s third-largest FDI source after Singapore and the USA. 2. Trade Imbalance & Limited Diversification: India’s exports to Mauritius are significantly higher than Mauritian exports to India. E.g. In 2023-24, India’s exports to Mauritius were $778 million, while Mauritius’ exports to India were only $73 million, leading to a tenfold trade imbalance. 3. China’s Expanding Influence: China has been increasing its economic and strategic presence in Mauritius, challenging India’s influence. E.g. China built the Mauritius Supreme Court and has provided infrastructure loans, raising concerns over debt dependency. 4. Security Challenges: Maritime Issues & Drug Trafficking: The Indian Ocean Region (IOR) faces growing security concerns, including drug trafficking and illegal fishing. E.g. Mauritius has been a transit hub for drug trafficking networks in the Indian Ocean, which poses a security risk for India’s maritime interests. 5. Slow Execution of Infrastructure Projects: Some India-funded projects in Mauritius have faced delays due to bureaucratic hurdles and implementation issues. E.g. The Metro Express Project, a key initiative under India’s $500 million Line of Credit, faced initial considerable delays. 6. Concerns over Chagos Archipelago & Regional Diplomacy: India initially hesitated to support Mauritius’ claim over the Chagos Archipelago, a British-controlled territory, due to strategic relations with the UK and the US. Mauritius expected stronger Indian diplomatic backing at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), but India maintained a diplomatic cautious stance, which led to some diplomatic friction. |
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Practice Question: Discuss the historical, strategic, and economic significance of India-Mauritius relations. How does India’s engagement with Mauritius align with its broader Indian Ocean strategy? (250 Words /15 marks) |
