April 07, 2002

‘13’

    India has suggested Mauritius to join hands for capturing African market. For this, India is prepared to set up joint ventures in the Island nation, said Dr. Murli Manohar Joshi, Minister for Human Resource Development and Science and Technology, here today, at the talks he had with the visiting Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister of Mauritius, Mr. Paul R. Berenger. He told Mr. Berenger that the goods and services through such a joint venture would be highly competitive and both the countries can benefit economically in a big way. The two leaders discussed various issues ranging from cooperation in education and bio-technology to global terrorism.

    Commending the steps taken by Mauritius to effectively counter terrorist activities, Dr. Joshi said that the adoption of the prevention of Terrorism Bill by the Mauritian National Assembly will help enhance global cooperation in the fight against terrorism. He said, India has also taken note of the call by Mauritius to all States to take strong measures to root out terrorism that takes place from within their territories. He thanked Mr. Berenger for the strong support extended by Mauritius for a permanent seat for India in the UN Security Council.

    Mr. Berenger sought India’s support for declaring the Aapravasi Ghat, a world heritage site. The Aapravasi Ghat was used by Indian indentured labourers as a landing site. He also wanted India to support a project under the auspices of UNESCO for an indentured labour route. Dr. Joshi indicated to Mr. Berenger that India would support these proposals. Mauritius has already initiated legislative measures to set up a Aapravasi Ghat Trust Fund and this was welcomed by Dr. Joshi.