India and Mauritius are poised to sign several important agreements aimed at enhancing economic relations during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day state visit, commencing on Tuesday. Anurag Srivastava, the Indian High Commissioner to Mauritius, shared this information on Monday.
In an interview with PTI, Srivastava pointed out that the introduction of the RuPay card and the Unified Payment Interface (UPI) in Mauritius will serve as vital instruments to increase tourism to the East African nation.
“There is considerable potential in our economic relationship. We anticipate that during this visit, further discussions will take place, leading to significant agreements on trade that will strengthen our economic ties,” Srivastava stated.
India and Mauritius solidified their economic connection with the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement in 2021, marking India’s first trade deal with an African nation. In the fiscal year 2023-24, India’s exports to Mauritius amounted to $778.03 million, while Mauritian exports to India were $73.10 million, resulting in a total trade figure of $851.13 million.
Srivastava also emphasized how the RuPay card and UPI have improved financial connectivity between the two countries. “These initiatives have proven beneficial for tourist inflow and are invaluable for those traveling to India for medical care. Our aim is to promote these payment methods widely in Mauritius,” he explained.
The Prime Minister of Mauritius, Navin Ramgoolam, has set an ambition to reduce the country’s debt-to-GDP ratio from 83% to approximately 60% by collaborating with development partners, global organizations, and supportive nations. Additionally, Mauritius is looking to diversify its economy into sectors such as sports.
“Various development projects, including the establishment of football fields and other sporting facilities, are being rolled out throughout Mauritius. We are actively discussing ways to strengthen our people-to-people ties, cultural relations, and other areas of mutual interest,” Srivastava remarked.
The two nations are expected to finalize agreements on bilateral trade, tackling cross-border financial crimes, and supporting small and medium enterprises. Discussions regarding the exchange of human and skilled resources may also begin, potentially leading to future agreements. Prime Minister Modi’s visit is significant, being his first bilateral trip to Mauritius since Ramgoolam’s government assumed office last November.
“This visit is perfectly timed, as it allows for early engagement with the new government, setting the tone for our relationship in the months and years to come,” Srivastava noted.
Upon his arrival in Mauritius on Tuesday, Modi will lay a wreath at the memorial of Sir Shiv Sagar Gulam. Subsequently, the leaders of both countries will inaugurate several projects supported by Indian development assistance, including the civil service college project and the Area Health Centre project. Before departing on March 12, Modi plans to visit Ganga Talao, a crater lake located in the Savanne district.
