Dr. S. Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister, emphasized the enduring relationship between India and Mauritius at the inauguration of the Mediclinic project in Grand Bois on Wednesday. Addressing the audience, which included Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, Vice Prime Minister Leela Devi Dookun Luchoomun, and Health Minister Kailash Jagutpal, Jaishankar conveyed greetings from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He acknowledged the strong kinship and historical ties binding the two nations.
"This visit, one of my first since resuming office in Modi Ji's third term, is very special," Jaishankar said. "Our relationship is not just neighborly; it is a bond of heart and blood." Jaishankar praised the resilience of Mauritius following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. "I had the honor of bringing the first set of vaccines to this country during the pandemic. Seeing the recovery and strength of the Mauritian people today is truly commendable," he added.
The Mediclinic project, which will provide secondary healthcare to 16,000 people in the Grand Bois area, is a testament to the ongoing collaboration between the two countries. "Health has become a priority for all of us, and every government has a duty to deliver this right to its people," Jaishankar said. He also highlighted several other joint healthcare projects, including a renal transplant unit at the Jawaharlal Nehru Hospital and two new area health centers set to open by the end of August. The ENT Hospital, another flagship project, played a crucial role during the pandemic as a COVID hospital. Additionally, the Jan Aaushadi Kendra initiative will ensure the availability of affordable medicines.
Jaishankar noted that the collaboration extends beyond healthcare, citing the Metro Express, social housing projects, the Supreme Court building, and digital education initiatives as symbols of the robust partnership.
"Our commitment to people-centric policies is evident in these projects, which transform lives step by step," he said. The minister also addressed the importance of addressing new challenges such as climate change, disaster preparedness, and security. "We are proud to support Mauritius through space-based cooperation for early warning systems and projects like the electric buses and renewable energy initiatives," Jaishankar said.
He emphasized the need for self-reliance and mutual support in the face of global challenges. "Today, we must help ourselves and stand by each other. These projects and initiatives are examples of that." Highlighting Mauritius's strategic importance, Jaishankar mentioned the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA) and described Mauritius as a bridge between India and Africa. "Mauritius is a natural partner for us in many ways, and we look forward to continued cooperation," he said.
Concluding his remarks, Jaishankar expressed gratitude for the warm reception and reiterated India's unwavering commitment to Mauritius. "Mauritius is always on our mind. Our happiness is never complete without your presence," he said. The event underscored the enduring friendship and collaborative spirit between India and Mauritius, reflecting a deep-rooted bond that continues to flourish.
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