Modi meets Mauritius counterpart, discusses cooperation in skilling, defence, energy

Victoria [Seychelles], June 29 (HBTV): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday met Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam on the sidelines of Seychelles' Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations, with the two leaders discussing various aspects of bilateral cooperation.

The leaders reviewed ongoing collaboration between India and Mauritius and discussed the way forward in sectors including capacity building, skilling, defence, energy and cyber security.

This was Prime Minister Modi's fourth meeting with Prime Minister Ramgoolam since the latter assumed office in November 2024.

The two Prime Ministers also reviewed the progress made in implementing the Special Economic Package extended by India to Mauritius.

Prime Minister Modi underscored the importance India attaches to the development and progress of Mauritius, noting that ongoing bilateral projects would contribute to the island nation's healthcare, connectivity, sustainable development and blue economy.

The leaders reaffirmed the significance of the India-Mauritius Enhanced Strategic Partnership under India's Vision MAHASAGAR and Neighbourhood First policy, as well as their shared commitment to the Global South.

They also agreed to continue working closely for mutual growth and to promote peace, stability and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region.

In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi said, 'Had an excellent meeting with Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam, the Prime Minister of Mauritius. We met at the start of the year during the AI Summit and now we have the chance to meet in Seychelles. We discussed ways to strengthen the India-Mauritius partnership. The progress being made across every area of our Enhanced Strategic Partnership is a matter of satisfaction for us. A number of projects are being implemented under our Special Economic Package. We also discussed the way ahead with regard to sectors such as capacity building, skilling, defence, energy, cyber security and more.'

During his visit to Seychelles, Prime Minister Modi also met Bernard Georges, Leader of the Opposition in the country's National Assembly.

In another post on X, Modi said, 'Had a good meeting with Mr. Bernard Georges, Leader of the Opposition in the Seychelles National Assembly. Discussed various subjects relating to the India-Seychelles partnership. Expressed gratitude for his warm remarks at the National Assembly earlier today, after my address. Glad to see the India-Seychelles relations having broad support across all sections of society in Seychelles.'

Earlier, Prime Minister Modi held talks with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie at the State House in Victoria, Mahe.

The discussions covered the full spectrum of bilateral relations, with both leaders agreeing to strengthen cooperation in health, education, capacity building, digital transformation, sustainable development, social infrastructure, renewable energy, maritime security and defence. They also exchanged views on regional and global developments, including challenges in the Indian Ocean region such as illegal fishing, drug trafficking and piracy.

Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the progress made in implementing projects and initiatives under India's Special Economic Package. Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to supporting Seychelles' development priorities and further deepening the close and enduring partnership between the two countries.

(ANI)