Prime Minister Narendra Modi with his Mauritius counterpart Navinchandra Ramgoolam during a bilateral meeting, in Varanasi.
Credit: PMO via PTI
Varanasi: India and Mauritius would work on trading in local currency even as India would undertake several infra projects, including constructing hospitals, ATC tower at the SSR International Airport, in the island nation.
The decisions were taken at a meeting between prime minister Narendra Modi and his Mauritius counterpart Navinchandra Ramgoolam in Varanasi, the Lok Sabha constituency of Modi.
Modi said that India and Mauritius were not merely partners but a ‘family’. Kashi (the old name of Varanasi) has been a symbol of Indisa’s civilization and cultural spirit….our culture and traditions reached Mauritius centuries ago and are now part and parcel of its life,’’ the prime minister said.
‘’And today as we welcome friends from Mauritius, it's not a mere formality but a spiritual meeting…it’s a matter of pride for India to be the primary and trustworthy partner in the development of Mauritius,’’ he added.
The Indian PM said that they had taken a decision on a special economic package keeping in view the needs and priorities of Mauritius which would strengthen infrastructure, generate new employment avenues.
The two leaders also issued a joint statement after the meeting. The Mauritius PM also raised the issue of Diogo Garcia with the PM. A number of MoUs were also signed between the two sides.
The delegations of the two countries discussed cooperation in the fields of science, technology, health and cultural relations.
Speaking after the meeting, the Mauritius PM said that he was overwhelmed by the reception that he and his delegation received in Varanasi and remarked that no other foreign dignitary would have received such a reception.
He said that both the leaders discussed the existing challenges and pressing issues confronting the world and that the two countries would continue to work together.
Modi said that India had always supported recognition to the sovereignty of Mauritius and freedom from colonialism
Foreign secretary Vikram Misry also met the Mauritius PM. It was said that India would establish a ‘Jan Aushadhi; Centre in the island nation which would be the first outside the country.
Earlier Modi was accorded a rousing reception upon his arrival in Varanasi. People lined up on both sides of the road to welcome the PM.