Political Upheaval in Mauritius and India
Context:
Last month, Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth of Mauritius celebrated a historic victory in the protracted Chagos Islands dispute, as sovereignty over the archipelago was finally transferred from the United Kingdom to Mauritius.
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- However, his political fortunes shifted dramatically within weeks, as the opposition leader Navin Ramgoolam triumphed in Mauritius’s parliamentary elections, securing a landslide victory that unseated Jugnauth.
- The outcome underscores growing discontent among Mauritians, who have been grappling with economic challenges despite steady GDP growth of 6-7% and a per capita income exceeding $10,000 in 2022.
- The political landscape was further roiled by infighting and a damaging wiretapping scandal. Just weeks before the election, a series of private phone recordings involving high-profile figures surfaced on a local YouTube channel, “Missie Moustass.”
Ramgoolam’s Return
- Ramgoolam’s return marks a significant political shift for the small island nation in the Western Indian Ocean.
- A veteran politician and the son of Mauritius’s founding father, Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, he has twice served as prime minister.
- His ties with India remain robust; during the COVID-19 pandemic, he was treated in Delhi and expressed gratitude for the support he received.
- While the leadership change in Mauritius raises questions about future diplomatic dynamics, Ramgoolam’s longstanding affinity with India offers optimism for continued strong bilateral relations.
Overview of India-Mauritius Relations
The partnership has evolved significantly since diplomatic relations were established in 1948, prior to Mauritius gaining independence in 1968.
Historical and Cultural Ties: The connection between India and Mauritius dates back to the 18th century, primarily due to the migration of Indian labourers to the island. Today, approximately 70% of Mauritius’ population is of Indian descent, which has fostered strong cultural bonds between the two nations. Institutions like the Indira Gandhi Centre for Indian Culture and the Mahatma Gandhi Institute promote Indian culture through educational initiatives.
Economic Relations: Economically, India is one of Mauritius’ largest trading partners. For the FY 2022-2023, Indian exports to Mauritius was USD 462.69 mn, Mauritian exports to India was USD 91.50 mn and Total trade was USD 554.19 mn. A significant milestone in their economic collaboration was the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA) in 2021, marking India’s first trade agreement with an African nation.
Development Cooperation: India has played a crucial role in Mauritius’ development through various initiatives. Recent projects include a $353 million Special Economic Package aimed at infrastructure development, which encompasses significant projects like the Metro Express and a new ENT hospital.
Strategic Partnership: India has provided military assistance including a Dornier aircraft and training programs for Mauritian defence personnel. Regular joint military exercises further solidify this partnership.
India, Mauritius, and the Regional Chessboard
- India has invested heavily in Mauritius as part of its “Security and Growth for All” policy, establishing critical infrastructure on the Agalega Islands, including an upgraded airstrip, a jetty, and plans for intelligence-sharing institutions.
- These developments enhance India’s maritime security capabilities and underline its commitment to countering China’s growing influence in the region.
- With Mauritius regaining sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago, India’s role as a strategic partner is poised to grow further, ensuring regional stability and countering potential Chinese aggression.
Navigating the Mauritius-China Dynamic
- A free trade agreement signed in 2019 and a Renminbi clearance centre established in 2022 highlight the island nation’s efforts to attract Chinese investment in areas like digital technology and pharmaceuticals.
- However, this relationship has not undermined Mauritius’s economic partnership with India.
- Notably, Mauritius signed a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement with India in 2021, a month after its free trade deal with China came into effect.
Implications for India’s Foreign Policy
- The political shift in Mauritius comes amid a broader regional reshuffling, with India navigating changing governments in the Maldives and Sri Lanka.
- Relations with Sri Lanka’s new communist administration have remained stable, while ties with the Maldives experienced strain under its pro-China president, Mohamed Muizzu, though recent diplomatic efforts have eased tensions.
As Mauritius enters this new chapter under Ramgoolam, the world watches closely, aware of the implications for regional geopolitics and the delicate balance of power in the Indian Ocean.
