Modi meets Ramgoolam in Varanasi, announces India-Mauritius Special Economic Package

“India and Mauritius are two nations, but our dreams and destiny are one,” Modi was quoted as saying during a press conference by Hindustan Times.

“Our culture and traditions reached Mauritius from India centuries ago," he said.

Navinchandra Ramgoolam undertook a State Visit to India at the invitation of Narendra Modi.

"The two Prime Ministers held very fruitful discussions on a wide range of bilateral issues," read a statement issued by the Indian government.

On the basis of requests submitted by the Government of Mauritius, the following projects have been agreed, in principle, to be jointly implemented by India and Mauritius.

Projects/Assistance to be undertaken on Grant basis

I. New Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam National Hospital.

II. AYUSH Centre of Excellence.

III. Veterinary School and Animal Hospital.

IV. Provision of helicopters.

It is estimated that the costs of these project and assistance requested would be approximately USD 215 million/MUR 9.80 billion.

Projects/Assistance to be undertaken on Grant-cum-LOC basis

I. Completion of construction work of new ATC tower at SSR International Airport.

II. Development of Motorway M4.

III. Development of Ring Road Phase II.

IV. Acquisition of port equipment by CHCL.

Estimated costs of these projects/assistance would be approximately USD 440 million/MUR 20.10 billion.

2. On the strategic side the two sides have also agreed, in-principle, for the following:

I. Redevelopment and restructuring of Port in Mauritius; and

II. Assistance in development and surveillance of Chagos Marine Protected Area.

It was also in-principle, agreed that the Government of India will extend budgetary assistance of USD 25 mn in the current Financial Year.