September 11,2025 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam on Thursday held bilateral talks in Varanasi, focusing on strengthening the India–Mauritius strategic partnership. The meeting took place during Ramgoolam’s state visit to India from September 9 to 16.
The leaders discussed cooperation in key sectors including health, education, renewable energy, blue economy, and infrastructure. Both sides also agreed to explore trade in local currencies to reduce transaction costs and dependency on the US dollar.
Prime Minister Modi highlighted the cultural and historical ties between India and Mauritius, calling the two nations “not just partners but family.” He said the setting of Varanasi, his parliamentary constituency, reflected the deep civilisational bonds between the countries.
The talks covered regional and global issues, with a focus on maritime security and developments in the Indian Ocean. Modi reiterated India’s support for Mauritius’s sovereignty, including on the Chagos Archipelago issue.
Several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed to enhance cooperation across different sectors. India also announced a special economic package to assist Mauritius in infrastructure development and the strengthening of its Exclusive Economic Zone.
The meeting reaffirmed India’s commitment to its “Neighbourhood First” policy and the “MAHASAGAR” vision—Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across the Region—aimed at deepening ties with maritime partners.
The Varanasi talks are seen as a major step in advancing bilateral relations, with both sides emphasizing a long-term strategic partnership rooted in shared values, economic cooperation, and regional security.
