Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mauritius’ Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth jointly inaugurated several community development projects on Agalega Island. This collaborative effort reflects the deep-rooted partnership between the two nations in addressing various challenges in the Indian Ocean region.
Prime Minister Modi, in his virtual address during the inauguration ceremony, emphasized the natural synergy between India and Mauritius in confronting both traditional and emerging challenges that affect their economic systems.
“Various traditional and non-traditional challenges are emerging in the Indian Ocean region. These challenges impact our economic systems. India and Mauritius are natural partners in the maritime domain to deal with these challenges,” Prime Minister Modi remarked.
China’s Growing Presence in Indian Ocean Region
This sentiment underscores the shared commitment of India and Mauritius to safeguarding the stability, prosperity, and security of the Indian Ocean region, particularly amidst growing concerns over the increasing presence of other global powers, such as China. The collaboration between India and Mauritius serves as a bulwark against external pressures and ensures that the interests of both nations are protected in this strategically significant maritime domain.
In his address during the virtual inauguration of projects including an airstrip and a jetty, PM Modi also announced that Mauritius will be the first country to join India’s Jan Aushadhi scheme (JAS). This is an initiative which has been rolled out to provide quality generic medicines at affordable prices. The scheme was launched by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Union Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers in 2008.
Significance of the Projects
The inauguration of development projects on Agalega Island, including the construction of an airstrip and a jetty, is a testament to India’s unwavering support for Mauritius’ developmental aspirations.
These projects, implemented with India’s financial assistance, exemplify the “Neighbourhood First” policy of India, which prioritizes the well-being and progress of its neighbouring countries. By enhancing connectivity and infrastructure on Agalega Island, these initiatives aim to uplift the local communities and facilitate greater economic activity in the region.
“Mauritius and India are actively working towards ensuring security, prosperity, and stability in the Indian Ocean region,” Prime Minister Modi reiterated.
Mauritius PM’s Remarks
Prime Minister Jugnauth, in his remarks, expressed profound gratitude for India’s continued assistance in realizing the development goals of Mauritius. He lauded Prime Minister Modi’s visionary leadership and acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the Indian diaspora towards fostering closer ties between the two nations. The inauguration of the development projects symbolizes the deepening friendship and cooperation between India and Mauritius, paving the way for further collaboration in various fields of mutual interest.
“We are making history today on the island of Agalega with the inauguration of a new airstrip, a new jetty, and several other development projects,” Prime Minister Jugnauth declared.
The adoption of the Jan Aushadhi scheme (JAS) by Mauritius, with India’s support, represents a significant milestone in the healthcare sector. This initiative will ensure access to affordable and high-quality generic medicines for the Mauritian population, thereby improving healthcare outcomes and enhancing the overall well-being of the people. The successful implementation of the Jan Aushadhi scheme underscores the effectiveness of India’s development assistance and the tangible benefits it brings to partner countries like Mauritius.
“It has been my vision and that of my government to spearhead development in every single part of our territory since our people remain at the heart of our development goals. We are translating that vision into reality,” Prime Minister Jugnauth affirmed.
The inauguration ceremony, attended by India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, signifies the importance of the India-Mauritius partnership in advancing shared objectives and fostering regional stability and prosperity. The collaborative efforts between India and Mauritius, as demonstrated by the inauguration of these development projects, underscore the enduring bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two nations.