Mauritius–EU partnership focuses on sustainable development and shared priorities

Mauritius and the European Union (EU) are looking to expand trade, attract investment and advance cooperation in key sectors. These priorities were outlined at the opening of the Second Mauritius – EU Partnership Dialogue held, this morning, at the Maritim Resort and Spa in Balaclava.

The opening ceremony was attended by the Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Mr Janmajaising Bissoondoyal; the Ambassador of the EU to the Republic of Mauritius, Mr Oskar Benedikt; Ambassadors and representatives of EU Member States; and other personalities.

In his address, Mr Bissoondoyal emphasised the need to strengthen economic ties with the EU by improving access to European markets, diversifying investment opportunities and positioning Mauritius as a gateway for investment into Africa. He also highlighted the potential of the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy to support sustainable infrastructure, connectivity, digital transformation, renewable energy and the blue economy.

Turning to the challenges facing Small Island Developing States, Mr Bissoondoyal called for accessible, predictable and affordable climate finance to strengthen climate resilience and adaptation. He also pointed out the importance of closer cooperation in ocean governance, maritime security and the sustainable management of marine resources, including efforts to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.

Moreover, Mr Bissoondoyal underscored the value of regional integration and multilateral cooperation, alongside exchanges in education, research, innovation and skills development. He stressed that the dialogue should translate shared priorities into coordinated action and concrete outcomes that deliver lasting benefits for Mauritius and the EU.

For his part, Ambassador Benedikt reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to Mauritius and highlighted democracy, the rule of law and social cohesion as foundations of the relationship. Referring to the recent unrest, he commended the Mauritian authorities for their handling of the situation and stressed the importance of dialogue and compromise in preserving peace and stability.

Ambassador Benedikt also outlined areas of practical EU support, including planned assistance with France to renew water infrastructure, developing renewable energy and addressing coastal erosion. He cited ongoing cooperation on the circular economy and efforts to expand financing opportunities, including through Blue Bonds. He further announced the conclusion of negotiations on a strengthened Economic Partnership Agreement, which would extend cooperation to services, and a new fisheries protocol expected to take effect soon.

19 October 2026

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Topics: Foreign Affairs, Bilateral cooperation