Mauritius and India share a unique relationship, which is based on deep historical and cultural affinities as well as common values and interests. The special ties can be traced back to the 18th Century, when the first Indian immigrants landed in Mauritius. Diplomatic relations between the two countries were established in 1948 and over the years, this has culminated into a deep economic and strategic partnership.

These relations have been further enhanced with the visit in March this year of H.E. President Droupadi Murmu, as Chief Guest for the National Day of Mauritius. During her visit, President Murmu, alongside the Honourable Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, Prime Minister of Mauritius inaugurated 14 India-assisted projects. The President also announced a new special provision for Mauritius under which Mauritians of 7th-generation Indian origin would now be eligible for Overseas Citizenship of India enabling many younger Mauritians to reconnect with the land of their ancestors.

In addition, last year, Mauritius was invited by India to participate as a Guest Country in the G20 Summit under India’s presidency. This invitation is another testimony of our special relations. More recently, the Prime Ministers of Mauritius and India jointly inaugurated the new Airstrip and the St. James Jetty and six community development projects at Agalega Island via video conferencing. There was also the launching of RuPay and UPI, India’s digital Payment in Mauritius in February 2024.

Cooperation between Mauritius and India extends over a wide range of sectors, including infrastructure, trade, culture, education, health, defense, security and the space sector. The Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA) between the two countries signed in February 2021, offers a framework for Indian investors and businesses to use Mauritius as a gateway to access Africa as Mauritius forms part of the African Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA).

As far as tourism is concerned, to further enhance tourism flow between Mauritius and India,there is a visa-free regime for Indian tourists. The number of flights has also been increased between Mauritius and India. There are now direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai.

--Head of Mission,
Mauritius High Commission, India