Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that the destinies of India and Mauritius were linked by the currents of the Indian Ocean, and added that the bilateral security partnership has been a strong pillar in building the relationship between both countries.
"We can pursue our dreams of a sustainable and prosperous future if we are confident about peace, security and stability in our world. For India and Mauritius, our destinies are linked by the currents of the Indian Ocean. Our security partnership has been a strong pillar of our relationship. And, it has stood the test of time," said Prime Minister Modi, while addressing the National Assembly of Mauritius.
"It is founded on unmatched mutual confidence and trust. It is rooted in the responsibility to each other that comes naturally from our friendship. It stems from our shared commitment to peace and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region," he said.
"As Mauritius seeks to make islands and waters safer; as you seek to secure your vast Exclusive Economic Zone, we will always be there for you. We will deepen our cooperation. And, we will also do everything we can to strengthen your own capabilities," he added.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister said India shared a broader vision for lasting stability and prosperity with Mauritius in the Indian Ocean region.
"Later today, I will have the honour to commission the Barracuda into the service of your National Coast Guard. Today, proudly flying the flag of Mauritius, she will sail as a symbol of our partnership. India is grateful for the faith you have placed in us," said Prime Minister Modi.
More From This Section
"And, as Mauritius assumes greater responsibility for securing this part of the Indian Ocean, we know that our region will be a safer place. But, we share a broader vision for lasting stability and prosperity in the region. We believe that all nations in our region should come together to shoulder our shared responsibility. We seek a comprehensive partnership of closer security, economic, cultural, scientific and people-to-people ties in our region," he said.
"That is why we are grateful that Mauritius hosts the Indian Ocean Rim Association. Your leadership will remain important to realize our vision. Your steadfast support in global institutions gives us more strength to speak on our common interests. Now, as the United Nations reaches its 70th year at a time of great turmoil, we seek your support to reform this institution to make it more relevant to the needs of our age," he added.
The Prime Minister further thanked Mauritius for their strong support for United Nations Resolution declaring June 21 as the International Day of Yoga
"I want to thank Mauritius for the strong support for United Nations Resolution declaring June 21 as the International Day of Yoga. This resolution was passed by a record co-sponsorship in a record time frame. This is a tribute to our shared heritage. I know you will celebrate it with fervor in Mauritius," said Prime Minister Modi.
"In the life of a nation, as in the life of an individual, there is nothing more precious and satisfying than a true friend and well-wisher; nothing more comforting than his embrace; nothing more valuable than his trust; nothing more reassuring than his support; nothing more enriching than his partnership. So, we are blessed to have your friendship. And, I always say that if there is one country that has full claims on us, it is Mauritius," he said.
"It a relationship of our hearts and sentiments. And, it will never be limited by boundaries. We in India will do everything to nurture it. This relationship will always be a source of great joy and strength to our two countries. And, it will also be of immense value to our region and our world. Thank you for this honour. Once again, I give you my best wishes on this National Day," he added.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi applauded Mauritius for its immense contribution towards Hindi literature, and said that when a man speaks in his native language, the words do not come out of his mouth, but his heart, while addressing a gathering at the World Hindi Secretariat Building site in Phoenix.
Prime Minister Modi, who was accorded a ceremonial welcome on his arrival in Port Louis yesterday, will also be the chief guest at the National Day celebrations of Mauritius.
On Wednesday, India and Mauritius signed five agreements to give new momentum to bilateral cooperation between the two nations.
The MoUs were signed in the presence of Prime Minister Modi and his Mauritian counterpart Sir Anerood Jugnuth.
