India Hands Over Crucial Navigation Chart to Mauritius, Strengthening Maritime Cooperation

New Delhi/Port Louis, March 12: In a significant step towards bolstering maritime cooperation, India has handed over a crucial navigation chart to Mauritius. The move reaffirms India’s commitment to enhancing maritime security and navigational safety in the Indian Ocean region, further deepening the strategic partnership between the two nations.

Strengthening Maritime Ties

The navigation chart, meticulously prepared by the Indian Navy’s Hydrographic Department, was officially presented to Mauritius in a high-level ceremony attended by senior officials from both countries. The document is expected to play a vital role in improving maritime trade, safeguarding navigation routes, and supporting oceanographic research.

The chart, based on the latest hydrographic surveys conducted by Indian naval vessels, provides detailed and updated mapping of the Mauritian waters. This will aid in better maritime planning, ensuring the safety of commercial vessels, fishing boats, and naval operations in the region.

India’s Contribution to Mauritius’ Maritime Capabilities

India has been a longstanding maritime partner of Mauritius, offering assistance in hydrography, security, and capacity-building. The latest navigation chart is part of a broader collaboration that includes:

• Hydrographic Surveys: Indian naval ships regularly conduct hydrographic surveys in Mauritian waters, helping the island nation update its maritime data.
• Maritime Security Training: India provides training and technical expertise to Mauritian naval and coast guard personnel.
• Defence Cooperation: Both nations have signed agreements to strengthen naval capabilities, including patrol vessel donations and joint maritime exercises.

Speaking on the occasion, India’s High Commissioner to Mauritius highlighted the importance of the navigation chart, stating that it would enhance maritime domain awareness and help Mauritius manage its vast Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) more effectively.

Strategic Importance in the Indian Ocean

Mauritius, situated strategically in the Indian Ocean, plays a crucial role in regional maritime security. As global shipping lanes pass near its waters, accurate navigation charts become essential for safe passage. With increasing maritime challenges, including piracy, illegal fishing, and environmental concerns, India’s support in hydrography and maritime surveillance is highly valued by Mauritius.

For India, the Indian Ocean is a key strategic domain, and strengthening ties with Mauritius aligns with its broader Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) vision. This initiative aims to ensure a stable and cooperative maritime environment in the Indian Ocean, benefiting not only India and Mauritius but the entire region.

Reaction and Future Cooperation

Mauritian authorities expressed gratitude for India’s continued support in maritime affairs. The country’s Minister of Blue Economy, Marine Resources, Fisheries, and Shipping emphasized that the new navigation chart would significantly enhance maritime safety, benefiting both local and international vessels.

Looking ahead, India and Mauritius are expected to expand their cooperation further, with plans for:

• Joint hydrographic surveys to cover more areas of Mauritian waters.
• Advanced training programs for Mauritian maritime officers.
• Technology sharing in marine data analytics and navigation systems.

As the two nations celebrate this milestone, the handover of the navigation chart symbolizes a growing and dynamic partnership that is set to shape maritime security and economic cooperation in the Indian Ocean region for years to come.