Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday spoke with Mauritian Prime Minister Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam over the telephone, reaffirming India’s commitment to further strengthening its long-standing and close partnership with the island nation. The leaders reviewed the progress made in bilateral relations and reiterated their shared vision of enhancing cooperation across strategic, economic and people-centric sectors that are central to India’s engagement in the Indian Ocean Region.
According to details shared after the conversation, the two sides discussed developments since their last meeting in Varanasi and assessed the implementation of ongoing projects. Modi highlighted that the relationship between India and Mauritius is built on deep historical, cultural and familial bonds, with a large section of Mauritius’ population tracing its roots to India. He stressed that New Delhi views Mauritius as a trusted partner and a key pillar in its neighbourhood-first and maritime security policies.
The leaders agreed to continue working closely to ensure peace, stability and sustainable development in the Indian Ocean, a region of growing strategic importance for India’s trade, security and connectivity interests. Maritime security cooperation, capacity building and coordinated regional engagement figured prominently in the discussions, reflecting the two countries’ shared priorities in safeguarding sea lanes and promoting a stable maritime environment.
Modi also invited Ramgoolam to visit India for the upcoming AI Impact Summit, where leaders and experts will deliberate on the role of artificial intelligence and digital technology in governance and development. The invitation signals India’s intention to broaden the partnership beyond traditional sectors and collaborate with Mauritius in emerging areas such as digital infrastructure, innovation and technology-driven public services.
The call follows Ramgoolam’s visit to India in September last year, during which both countries agreed to deepen cooperation in infrastructure development, healthcare, renewable energy, and digital transformation. Multiple memoranda of understanding were signed to accelerate joint initiatives and enhance institutional linkages. These agreements are expected to support Mauritius’ development goals while creating new opportunities for Indian expertise and investment abroad.
People-to-people connections remain at the heart of the India–Mauritius relationship. Earlier, Modi presented Overseas Citizen of India cards to Ramgoolam and his spouse, Veena Ramgoolam, underscoring the shared heritage between the two nations. India also extended OCI eligibility to Mauritian nationals of Indian origin traceable up to the seventh generation, a move aimed at strengthening diaspora ties and facilitating travel, education and business linkages.
The latest diplomatic engagement reflects India’s broader strategy of reinforcing partnerships with friendly nations in the region while promoting stability and growth. With shared democratic values and close cultural links, India and Mauritius continue to position their relationship as a model of cooperation, anchored in mutual trust and aligned interests in regional peace and prosperity.
