India and Mauritius elevated their ties to an 'enhanced strategic partnership' during Indian Prime Minister's visit to the country.
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Prime Minister of both the countries inked various pacts to boost cooperation in several sectors, including maritime security, and promote trade in local currencies.
India also announced India's new vision for the Global South, naming it "MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions)".
A navigational chart of St. Brandon Island also handed over.
Significance of Mauritius for India
India established diplomatic relations with Mauritius in 1948, before it achieved independence.
Significance of Mauritius could be outlined under the following dimensions
Dimensions
Description
Strategic Location
Mauritius's location in the western Indian Ocean makes it vital for India's maritime and regional security, especially amid China's rising influence.
It helps India tackle piracy, terrorism, trafficking, and illegal fishing.
Geopolitical Importance
Known as the "Star and Key of the Indian Ocean," Mauritius is at the heart of growing global interest from China, Europe, Gulf nations, and others.
China has established its base in Djibouti, which has made Mauritius a strategic hotspot.
Maritime Security Partner
Mauritius is key to India's efforts to secure the Indian Ocean. It is part of the Colombo Security Conclave alongside India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Bangladesh.
India has developed infrastructure on Mauritius' Agaléga island, set up coastal radar stations, and provided access to its naval Information Fusion Centre.
Airspace Cooperation
India inaugurated a new airstrip and jetty on the Agalega island of Mauritius.
With this upgrade of the existing 800-metre airstrip into a full-length airfield, India can station and deploy these large carriers directly on the island, providing security in the region.
Business and Economic Gateway to Africa
As part of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Mauritius serves as a key gateway for India's trade and investment in Africa.
Owing to India-Mauritius Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA), it is a major route for investment into India and a platform for Indian businesses entering Africa.
Cultural Ties
Around 70% of Mauritius's population is of Indian origin, strengthening cultural and people-to-people ties.
The legacy of the Girmitiyas (Indentured Indian labourers) forms a deep historical bond between the two nations.
What are the challenges in India-Mauritius Relations?
Trade and Taxation Agreements: Mauritius has sought amendments to its trade and taxation agreements with India to restore its position as a preferred investment conduit.
Since the 2016 treaty revision, FDI inflows from Mauritius to India have sharply declined. Thus, Mauritius is seeking parity with Singapore and positions itself as a gateway for Indian investors targeting African markets.
China's Growing Influence: China has funded major infrastructure projects, including an airport terminal, the Bagatelle Dam, a sports complex, and a cruise ship terminal.
Balancing Ethnic Engagement: With a diverse population, including Indian-origin, African, and European communities, India has to engage all groups to maintain balanced relations with Mauritius.
Drug Trafficking: Mauritius has become a drug trafficking hub, posing a risk to India's maritime interests.
Environmental Risks: Mauritius faces climate challenges like rising sea levels, cyclones, and coastal degradation.
Conclusion
India's role as a leading development partner and first responder in times of crisis has reinforced its image as a reliable and supportive friend. While Mauritius continues to balance ties with global powers, it values India's consistent support in boosting its sovereignty and strategic autonomy. The Prime Minister's visit to Mauritius signals India's deep commitment to further strengthening this unique, multi-dimensional partnership in both regional and global arenas.
What is MAHASAGAR?
MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) is an expanded version of India's 2015 maritime policy, SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region).
While SAGAR focused on India's immediate neighborhood, MAHASAGAR has a wider reach, especially in the Global South.
SAGAR facilitated deepening maritime ties through information exchange, coastal surveillance, infrastructure development, and enhancing security capabilities.
Key Focus Areas
Trade for Development
Mutual Security
Technology Sharing
Financial Assistance
New Initiatives under MAHASAGAR:
IOS (Indian Ocean Ship) Sagar: Promotes maritime cooperation with Indian Ocean Region (IOR) countries.
AIKEYME (Africa-India Key Maritime Engagement): A large-scale naval exercise with African nations to boost maritime security, interoperability, and unity (AIKEYME means "unity" in Sanskrit)
NOTE:
MAHASAGAR (Maritime Heads for Active Security And Growth for All in Region) Launched by Indian Navy in 2023 aligns with India's SAGAR vision
It is a bi-annual initiative that brings together naval leaders and maritime officials from Bangladesh, Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania.
