Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced his day with a roadshow in Varanasi, his Lok Sabha constituency in Uttar Pradesh. He received a warm welcome upon his arrival. The roadshow spanned from the Police Line to the Hotel Taj in the city. Later in the day, he is scheduled to host the Prime Minister of Mauritius, Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam, who is on a State Visit to India from September 9-16. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met with Ramgoolam in advance of their bilateral discussions. Uttar Pradesh minister Dayashankar Mishra expressed optimism regarding the meeting, emphasizing the strengthening of ties between the two nations. He noted the significance of Mauritius as a key partner, often referred to as the second India.
Prime Minister Ramgoolam had previously arrived in Kashi, the cultural capital of India. The two leaders are expected to hold discussions aimed at further solidifying relations. Ramgoolam received a ceremonial welcome and a Guard of Honour upon his arrival in Kashi on September 9, with Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel in attendance. The meeting in Varanasi highlights the enduring civilizational and spiritual connections, as well as the deep-rooted people-to-people ties that define the special relationship between India and Mauritius.
During the bilateral talks, the leaders will review the spectrum of cooperation, particularly focusing on development partnerships and capacity building. They will also explore avenues for increased collaboration in health, education, science & technology, energy, infrastructure, and emerging fields such as renewable energy, digital public infrastructure, and the blue economy. This visit builds upon the momentum created by PM Modi’s State Visit to Mauritius in March 2025, where the bilateral relationship was elevated to an ‘Enhanced Strategic Partnership’. Mauritius is a crucial partner and maritime neighbor in the Indian Ocean Region, central to India’s MAHASAGAR Vision and ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. The growing cooperation is important for the prosperity of both nations and the collective aspirations of the Global South. The Prime Minister will also travel to Dehradun later in the day to conduct an aerial survey of the flood-affected areas in Uttarakhand and chair a high-level review meeting.