India-Mauritius discuss strengthening energy partnership

Port Louis, Aug 23 (IANS) Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri called on Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam and discussed possibilities for furthering cooperation in the energy sector, the Indian High Commission said on Sunday.

“Hon’ble Minister called on Dr. the Hon. Navinchandra Ramgoolam, Prime Minister of Mauritius. Both leaders discussed possibilities for furthering India-Mauritius cooperation in the energy sector. Hon’ble Minister conveyed India’s continued commitment to supporting Mauritius’ energy security and energy transition,” the Indian mission said on X.

Following the meeting, a Government-to-Government Memorandum of Understanding on oil and gas cooperation and an agreement between Indian Oil Corp Ltd and the State Trading Corporation of Mauritius were exchanged.

“These agreements will meet Mauritius’ requirements of petrol, diesel, marine gas oil and Aviation Turbine Fuel, providing long-term supply certainty and protection from price volatility, thereby enhancing energy security,” the High Commission said.

Puri made an official visit to Mauritius from August 20-22.

Last week, Mauritius President Dharambeer Gokhool joined Indian High Commissioner Anurag Srivastava to celebrate the longstanding friendship between India and Mauritius at a reception hosted by the High Commission to celebrate the 80th Independence Day.

“Toasts were raised by President Dharambeer Gokhool and High Commissioner Anurag Srivastava, celebrating the longstanding friendship between India and Mauritius,” the Indian High Commission said on X.

During his remarks, High Commissioner Srivastava highlighted key achievements over the past year, including the Enhanced Strategic Partnership, the announcement of a Special Economic Package worth $680 million, the inauguration of the Renal Transplant Unit, and the handing over of 100 e-buses.

He also underscored upcoming projects, such as a joint satellite and an e-judiciary.

The High Commission said that the event was also attended by Prime Minister Ramgoolam, Deputy Prime Minister Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie, Vice-President Robert Hungley, Chief Justice Rehana Mungly-Gulbul, Speaker Shirin Aumeeruddy-Cziffra, Ministers, Junior Ministers, Members of Parliament, business community members, socio-cultural organisations, members of the media, and friends of India from all walks of life.

–IANS

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