Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a grand welcome in his parliamentary constituency on Thursday as residents showered flowers on his convoy and lined the streets with the Tricolour and BJP flags, chanting slogans of “Modi, Modi.”

The city has been decked up with elaborate decorations and security arrangements for the high-level visit, which marks a significant moment in India’s engagement with Mauritius.

PM Modi is in Varanasi to hold bilateral talks with Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, focusing on strengthening the ‘Enhanced Strategic Partnership’ between the two nations.

The meeting in the ancient spiritual capital of India is expected to showcase the civilisational connect, cultural linkages, and enduring people-to-people bonds that form the bedrock of India-Mauritius relations.

During the talks, the leaders will review the full spectrum of cooperation, with emphasis on development partnership, capacity building, and collaboration in healthcare, education, science and technology, energy, and infrastructure. Special focus will be placed on renewable energy, digital public infrastructure, and the blue economy.

The discussions build on the momentum of PM Modi’s state visit to Mauritius in March, when the two countries elevated their ties to an ‘Enhanced Strategic Partnership.’

As a close maritime neighbour in the Indian Ocean Region, Mauritius plays a pivotal role in advancing India’s MAHASAGAR Vision (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Region) and the ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. The partnership is also seen as a key contributor to the aspirations of the Global South.

The Varanasi Summit is expected to mark a milestone in bilateral ties, reinforcing the shared commitment to mutual prosperity, sustainable development, and a secure, inclusive future.

Earlier in the day, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri called on PM Ramgoolam to discuss the multifaceted India-Mauritius partnership.
“Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri called on PM Navinchandra Ramgoolam of Mauritius today in Varanasi. Discussed multifaceted partnership and reaffirmed commitment in strengthening India-Mauritius Enhanced Strategic Partnership anchored in shared history, culture & people-to-people ties,” the Ministry of External Affairs posted on X.