Europe Day 2026: EU highlights enduring ties with Mauritius and commitment to shared progress

Mauritius and the European Union (EU) share common values rooted in democracy, human dignity, freedom, and the rule of law, stated the Ambassador of the EU to the Republic of Mauritius, Mr Oskar Benedikt, while reaffirming EU’s commitment to supporting Mauritius in addressing contemporary challenges, including climate change, coastal erosion, energy transition, and economic resilience.

He was speaking, yesterday evening in Telfair Moka, during a reception hosted by the EU to mark the 76th anniversary of Europe Day as well as celebrate the longstanding and deep-rooted partnership between EU and the Republic of Mauritius.

The President of the Republic of Mauritius, Mr Dharambeer Gokhool; the Prime Minister, Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam; the Vice-President, Mr Jean Yvan Robert Hungley; the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, Mrs Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie; the Speaker of the National Assembly, Mrs Shirin Aumeeruddy-Cziffra; Ministers; diplomatic Corps and several other personalities were present.

The Ambassador recalled that the Mauritius-EU partnership spans over more than five decades, beginning with the Yaoundé Convention and Lomé Conventions of the 1970s and later strengthened through the Cotonou Partnership Agreement and the recently ratified Samoa Agreement.

He underscored several Agreements between the EU and Mauritius that have shaped the trade relations over the years, contributing to the successful economic development of Mauritius. He also highlighted EU’s continued support to Mauritius in key sectors including renewable energy, fisheries, blue economy, climate resilience, water management, higher education, research, green finance, and environmental protection.

Particular emphasis was laid on regional cooperation within the Indian Ocean and Africa, with EU reaffirming its support to regional organisations such as the African Union, the Indian Ocean Commission, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa, and the Southern African Development Community. The Ambassador also welcomed ongoing efforts to deepen economic cooperation between the EU and Indian Ocean countries through a modern strengthened Economic Partnership Agreement.

Speaking on the significance of Europe Day, he underlined that it commemorates the historic Schuman Declaration of 1950, which laid the foundations for a united and peaceful Europe after the devastation of the Second World War.

The Ambassador emphasised that what began with six countries cooperating on coal and steel has evolved into a union of 27 democratic nations representing 450 million citizens and nearly 18% of global GDP. He dwelt on some of EU’s achievements, namely the creation of a single market, free movement of people and goods, common euro currency, major advances in science and innovation, and leadership in environmental protection and multilateral cooperation.

Addressing current global geopolitical tensions, Mr Benedikt stated that the EU remains committed to defending democracy, international law, and multilateralism while strengthening strategic partnerships across the world to promote peace, stability, and prosperity. He further praised Mauritius as a model of peaceful coexistence and stability, where different communities and cultures live together harmoniously.

Ambassador Benedikt reaffirmed that Europe has steadfastly supported Mauritius since its independence and remains dedicated to deepening bilateral relations. He emphasised that despite ongoing global challenges, the EU continues to grow stronger and more united through solidarity and cooperation.

The evening also featured exhibitions showcasing joint EU-Mauritius initiatives in sustainable fisheries, climate-smart agriculture, ecosystem protection, women’s empowerment, higher education mobility, and scientific research cooperation.

09 May 2026

Email: gis@govmu.org

Website: https://gis.govmu.org

Mobile App: GIS News

Topics: Bilateral cooperation