Macron's Historic Visit to Mauritius Bolsters Bilateral Ties with Prime Minister Ramgoolam

Historic Presidential Visit Underlines Deep-Rooted Partnership

French President Emmanuel Macron concluded a significant two-day official visit to Mauritius on November 21, 2025, where he held a press conference with Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam. The visit, described as the first by a French President in 32 years, aimed to strengthen the enduring bilateral relations between France and the island nation. President Macron's trip was part of a broader African tour, preceding his attendance at the G20 Summit in South Africa.

During his stay, President Macron also paid a courtesy call on the President of the Republic of Mauritius, Mr. Dharam Gokhool, who elevated him to the rank of Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean (GCSK).

Key Areas of Enhanced Cooperation and Agreements

The discussions between President Macron and Prime Minister Ramgoolam covered a wide array of strategic areas, culminating in several new agreements. Both leaders emphasized the importance of their historical, cultural, and linguistic ties. Key topics addressed included:

• Maritime Security: New joint initiatives were announced, including coordinated mobilization of French naval assets and Mauritian aerial surveillance, alongside expanded training opportunities through the Indian Ocean Academy. The objectives are to protect exclusive economic zones, combat illegal fishing and narcotics trafficking, and strengthen regional efforts against organized crime.
• Blue Economy and Environment: Agreements were signed in the blue economy, energy transition, renewable energy, and sustainable water management. President Macron commended Mauritius for being among the first signatories of the Marine Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction Treaty (BBNJ Treaty), highlighting its significance for ocean conservation.
• Education and Francophonie: A joint declaration of intent was signed for the development of bilingual francophone education and support for Mauritius' language policy. This includes launching a highly selective bilingual French–English academic pathway in public schools and continuing the implementation of French BTS programs.
• Digital Technology and Artificial Intelligence: Discussions also focused on integrating emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, into the curriculum and fostering innovation.
• Regional Cooperation: The leaders discussed geopolitics, anti-corruption efforts, drug trafficking, and cooperation with Réunion Island. Prime Minister Ramgoolam expressed gratitude for France's support on the Chagos issue.

Economic Partnership and Shared Global Vision

France remains a crucial economic partner for Mauritius, serving as its third-largest trading partner, leading customer for Mauritian exports, and the primary foreign investor. The island nation also hosted approximately 340,000 French tourists last year. The visit aimed to further solidify these economic bonds, with new partnerships involving the Mauritius Sugar Syndicate, Moulin de la Concorde, and InVivo for flour supply.

President Macron underscored the mutual respect defining the relationship and the shared vision on major global challenges such as climate change, geopolitical instability, and disruptions to trade, reaffirming France's commitment to multilateralism. The visit also saw the inauguration of the new French Embassy in Moka, symbolizing the deepening ties.