India and Mauritius today signed four agreements after delegation-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Mauritius counterpart Pravind Kumar Jugnauth in New Delhi.

The agreements include New Delhi extending a 500 million dollar line of credit to Mauritius. In his address, after signing of the agreements, Mr Modi said, the line of credit is an example of India’s strong and continuing commitment to the development of the island nation.

Mr Modi said both countries have agreed that effective management of conventional and non-conventional threats in Indian Ocean is essential to pursue economic opportunities. He also said, the conclusion of the bilateral Maritime Security Agreement today, will further strengthen mutual cooperation and capacities between the two nations.

Applauding Mr Jugnauth leadership, for the signing and ratification of the framework agreement on International Solar Alliance, Prime Minister Modi said, it has opened up new vistas of regional partnership for both countries in this field. He said, both the countries need to keep up vigil against piracy that impacts trade and tourism, humans and drugs trafficking as well as illegal fishing and other forms of illegal exploitation of marine resources.

Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth thanked India for its assistance in the field of education, training and research. He said, India is closest strategic partner. Mr Jugnauth said, he and Mr Modi discussed bilateral cooperation, infrastructure development and major projects that are currently ongoing and certain other issues of mutual interest among others.

He said, these projects are in line with the his vision to making Mauritius a country well integrated with global economy and ready to taking challenges and opportunities to fulfil needs and aspirations of Mauritius people. He said, there is a need to ensure that sea lanes are safe and secure and regular patrolling is conduct to control illegal activities like piracy, illegal fishing and drug trafficking.

Mr Jugnauth said, India and Mauritius have close cooperation in Indian ocean that binds the two countries. He said, the two nations have developed strong cooperation in the field of defence and security. Mr Jugnauth said, the acquisition of a Naval vessel from India has enhanced operational capacity of police and coast guard to protect its maritime boundaries.

Earlier, Mr Jugnauth met External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation in various areas, including trade and investment. Ms. Swaraj said, there was scope to expand bilateral ties in a range of areas.

In the morning, Mauritius Prime Minister was given a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Mr Jugnauth also paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. He is on a three-day state visit to India. This is Mr Jugnauth’s first visit abroad as prime minister after assuming office early this year.